Cubs manager David Ross answered the question before the reporter finished it.
“Hey, Rossy, do you have an Opening Day starter –”
“Kyle Hendricks.”
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The decision was that obvious. On Tuesday, Ross made his starter official for the Cubs’ opener against the Pirates on April 1. Hendricks makes his second consecutive Opening Day start.
Last season, the right-hander threw a complete game shutout to open the season, and the Cubs beat the Brewers 3-0.
“Well, it worked out pretty good last year when he started,” Ross laughed. “I don't know that I was expecting that last year, and it worked out well. I feel like we've got a lot of talent. I feel like Kyle, his resume his leadership, his poise, just the extra pomp and circumstance that goes with opening day and especially on this coming year, as well – every arrow points to Kyle.”
Ross said he’s not ready to announce the rest of his rotation order. Jake Arrieta and Zach Davies are expected to follow Hendricks.
