GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Here's how the conversation about Opening Day goes when you have a pitcher of Clayton Kershaw's accomplishments. The Dodgers -- and everyone in baseball -- knew Kershaw would be scheduled to pitch that game before anyone even arrived at Camelback Ranch.
Don Mattingly was just waiting for someone to ask.
On Monday morning, someone asked and, yes, the four-time major league ERA leader is scheduled to get the ball April 6 against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium.
"We talked about three or four days ago," Mattingly said. "I said, 'The next time they ask me, I'm just going to let them know.' I was just waiting for you."
Presuming he gets through the spring in good health, the Opening Day assignment will be Kershaw's fifth straight.
"I was prepared for it, but you never know. We've got a lot of good pitchers here," Kershaw said. "Now, I've got a goal date: April 6."
Kershaw was unaware last season counted as an Opening Day start since it took place overseas in Australia in the middle of the night for American viewers. Told it counted, Kershaw said, "Nice. The streak's intact."
The Padres have not announced an Opening Day starter.