The obvious was made official today: Chris Archer will start Opening Day.

But this truly is a noteworthy development.

This Opening Day start should have a different feel for Archer. Last year, he was the backup choice after Alex Cobb went down with a right forearm injury in spring training. Archer was knocked around against the Orioles, allowing four runs (three earned) and six hits before he was yanked in the sixth inning.

Too much is made of what happens on Opening Day, but it will be interesting to see how Archer handles his first appearance as The Man of the Rays’ current rotation. A solid, controlled start against a potent Blue Jays lineup would send a message.

Receiving the Opening Day nod remains a badge of honor for pitchers from sea to shining sea. This will be Archer’s second trip to the bump in front of the bunting and big optimism that comes with Game No. 1. The bright lights of the Trop will be cranked up on Sunday, April 3.

Today, Archer spoke about being tapped for the Opening Day assignment, and FOX Sports Florida cameras were there to capture his reaction.

.@ChrisArcher22 says it is an honor to take the mound on Opening Day for the @RaysBaseball.https://t.co/lptHIRvdBD

— FOX Sports Florida (@FOXSportsFL) March 14, 2016