The Orioles' rotation enters the season as a big question mark as fans, opposing clubs and the organization all wonder if the O's starting pitching can hold up. Tillman, an All-Star in 2013, bouncing back from a disappointing last season is a big part of the equation.
This will be Tillman's third Opening Day assignment, and he is the first O's starter to get the nod for three consecutive years since Mike Mussina did it from 1998-2000.
"It says something about his dependability ... Chris has been a durable performer," Orioles manager Buck Showalter said.