Tim Hudson named Opening Day starter for Braves

Right-handed pitcher Tim Hudson was officially named the Opening Day starter for the Braves, reports Mark Bowman. Kris Medlen had also been mentioned as a possible option, but the team ended up going with Hudson, a veteran who will make his third Opening Day start with the Braves (and sixth overall).

Though Medlen proved to be baseball’s top pitcher while posting a 0.97 ERA in 13 starts during the final two months of last season, it has been assumed this Opening Day honor would go to Hudson, who has been a key part of Atlanta’s rotation since joining the Braves in 2005.

While Medlen has made just 30 career starts, Hudson has made the fourth-most starts (222) in Atlanta history.

The Braves will take on the Philadelphia Phillies on April 1 in Atlanta. Medlen will likely start in Game 3 of the series.

The Braves have officially announced Tim Hudson as their Opening Day starter.—
Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) March 21, 2013

#Braves rotation for opening series vs. Phillies: Hudson, Maholm and Medlen. Minor will debut against the Cubs on April 5—
Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) March 21, 2013