Blue Jays' Ricky Tiedemann: In mix for opening series start

Blue Jays manager John Schneider said Friday that Tiedemann is "in the mix" to make the Opening Day roster and get a start during the first series of the season in Tampa Bay, Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun reports.

Tiedemann's potential inclusion on the Opening Day roster hinges on whether Kevin Gausman (shoulder) is ready for a start during the opening series or needs a short stint on the injured list. Mitch White is the favorite to handle the assignment, with Yariel Rodriguez, Wes Parsons and Paolo Espino also in the mix along with Tiedemann to fill in for Gausman. It's difficult to envision the young left-hander winning out if he would only be needed for one start, but the fact that he's even being considered points to his potential to reach the majors sooner rather than later.