MLB Opening Day 2016: Michael Feliz tapped for Astros' final roster spot

There haven't been many questions swirling around the Astros 25-man roster heading into the 2016 season. One of the major questions that lingered was, 'Who would fill out the final spot in the bullpen with the Astros carrying 12 pitchers to start the season?'

Astros manager A.J. Hinch announced Friday that the final spot would go to Michael Feliz over Wandy Rodriguez and James Hoyt.

Feliz, 22, pitched in six games this spring with a 1-0 record, 1.72 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 16 strikeouts in 15 2/3 innings. The young flame-throwing right-hander will start the season as the Astros' long relief option.

"I feel pretty good, because it was my goal, be on the opening day (roster) and start with the team," Feliz said of winning the job.

Feliz made a short trip up to the majors in 2015, appearing in five games. He allowed seven earned runs over eight innings on nine hits and four walks.

"The length of Feliz and the protection won out," A.J. Hinch said of the final competition for the last roster spot, "I don't think there was a bad decision to make. I would have been completely comfortable with Hoyt, or actually, a couple of guys left back in Kissimmee."

Hoyt, 29, who finish Spring Training with a 3.97 ERA and 1.15 WHIP in 11 1/3 innings (10 appearances).  Hoyt is one few arms the Astros have on the cusp of making the team. He could easily find his way back to Houston this season.

"It's just part of the business," said Hoyt. "I'll be ready when they need me. (I will) go down to Fresno and just try and stay sharp. Do my best to (improve) every day.

"Yes, of course, it's disappointing. I've been working hard all spring. It's not the answer I wanted, but we move on."