Lopez (back) is slated to start Sunday's game against the Padres in Atlanta, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Lopez came away with a no-decision in Tuesday's 4-2 win over the Red Sox, allowing two runs (one earned) on six hits and four walks over 5.1 innings. He struck out five.

Lopez (2-1) took the loss Tuesday against the Mariners, allowing three runs on six hits and two walks while striking out seven over five innings.

Lopez didn't factor into the decision Tuesday against the White Sox, allowing one run on four hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out five.

Lopez will open the season as Atlanta's fifth starter after the team optioned Bryce Elder to Triple-A Gwinnett on Monday, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Lopez is likely to be deployed as both a starter and a reliever over the course of the season, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Lopez struck out four and walked one over three scoreless, no-hit innings during Thursday's Grapefruit League game against the Red Sox.

Lopez "might be the early favorite" to open the season as Atlanta's No. 5 starter, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Lopez will be stretched out as a starter to begin spring training, but his ultimate role remains uncertain, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Lopez signed a three-year, $26 million contract with Atlanta on Monday.