Football
Associated Press 18y

Johnson to start opener for Yankees in Oakland

TAMPA, Fla. -- Randy Johnson was picked as the New York
Yankees' opening day starter against the Oakland Athletics.

Yankees manager Joe Torre announced the decision, which was
expected, on Wednesday. New York opens April 3 at Oakland.

"I don't think it's going to shock anybody," Torre said. "If
something happens, then we'll have to make adjustments."

It will be the 14th opening day assignment for Johnson, which
would make him the leader among active pitchers. Roger Clemens, who
hasn't decided if he will pitch in the major leagues this season,
has made 13 opening day starts.

The Big Unit is 6-2 on opening day, including a 9-2 win over the
Boston Red Sox in his Yankees debut last April 3. He finished 17-8
last year with a 3.79 ERA in 34 starts.

"Obviously, it's a nice honor, but there's a lot of work
between now and then," Johnson said.

He is scheduled to make his first spring training start Saturday
against Cincinnati.

"I feel comfortable right now," Johnson said. "I just need to
go out and pitch accordingly, get my innings in, get my arm
strength, remain comfortable with my mechanics and then hopefully
take it right into opening day."

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