Astros manager Bo Porter announced Wednesday that starting pitcher Jordan Lyles was optioned to minor-league camp, taking him out of the competition for the starting rotation following a disastrous spring.
"I told (Lyles) it's not a demotion, it's a delay," Porter told the Houston Chronicle.
Lyles was 0-3 with a 17.74 ERA and 3.17 WHIP in five spring outings (four starts). He allowed 24 runs (23 earned runs) and 36 hits in 11 2/3 innings.
Porter also announced pitcher Bud Norris will start opening day (March 31) against the Rangers. He will be followed by Lucas Harrell and Philip Humber in the three-game series.
The competition for the final two spots in the rotation is down to Erik Bedard, Brad Peacock and Alex White, with John Ely also being optioned to minor-league camp Wednesday.