Diamondbacks' Zack Greinke: Named Opening Day starter

Manager Torey Lovullo named Greinke the D-backs' Opening Day starter Wednesday, Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis:

The news comes as no surprise; Greinke is still considered the ace of the staff even after his disappointing 2016 campaign. The right-hander has been taking it easy this spring as he recovers from a season-ending shoulder injury, but is expected to make his first Cactus League start Friday against the Dodgers. After posting a career-best 1.66 ERA in 2015, Greinke slumped to a dismal 4.37 last year, a stat he'll aim to improve upon in his 14th major league season. Expect the three-time All-Star to be back in form and ready for action within the coming weeks.