LAKELAND, Florida (Kyodo) -- A disappointed Kenta Maeda learned Friday that he will not be part of the Detroit Tigers' starting rotation to begin the Major League Baseball season, but the veteran right-hander vowed to make an impact as a reliever.

The 36-year-old, who has been a starter for most of his nine years in MLB, was told he will move to the bullpen by Detroit manager A.J. Hinch before practice at the team's spring training base in Lakeland, Florida.

"I've been battling for a starting spot, so it's a real shame," said Maeda, who has pitched in four preseason games with an ERA of 5.68.

Maeda missed a game last weekend because of an illness and said he has lost weight. He is scheduled to pitch in spring training Saturday against the Atlanta Braves and is focused on getting in shape for Opening Day.

"I just have to stay positive and continue making my case," he said.

Maeda, who was moved to relief midway through last season amid a struggle in form, had been contending for one of the final two spots in the Tigers' rotation.