The Tampa Bay Rays have named David Price their Opening Day starter on March 31.

"Any time you're asked to throw the first game of the season for your club, it's a big day," Price said. "We take pride in it. It's a very special feeling for that Opening Day, whether you're pitching it or whether you're on the bench. I've been on the bench on Opening Day and it still gives you goose bumps, the national anthem, everything that goes on.

"You know during Opening Day, it's very special for us and it kicks off our season. So it's always good to get the ball rolling, and I'm the one that got the nod, so I'm very fortunate for that."

Price has been the subject of trade rumors consistently.

It will be Price's third Opening Day assignment in his career with the Rays.