PEORIA, Ariz. — Left-hander Erik Bedard, obtained last week by Seattle, will start on opening day.

Bedard was expected to compete with Felix Hernandez for the top spot in Seattle's rotation, but Mariners manager John McLaren said he informed Bedard of his decision today.

Bedard was acquired from Baltimore for outfielder Adam Jones, left-handed reliever George Sherrill and three minor league prospects.