This will be the first time Daal has started on Opening Day. In fact, the earliest he's pitched was the third game of the season. That was last year for the Diamondbacks against the Phillies. Steve Carlton lost 20 games for the Phillies in 1973 and was the team's Opening Day starter in 1974. There's a lot of pressure, but it shows they have confidence in me.
Last year is over.
This year I'm working hard. I'm just going to do my best. I knew this was a possibility, but I was surprised when they told me. I'm happy and excited. Somebody's got to be No. 1.