The Athletics have named Brandon McCarthy their starter for Opening Day 2012.
McCarthy was an easy choice based on last year's results and trades that left the team without All-Stars Gio Gonzalez and Trevor Cahill.
Oakland will open their season in Japan on March 28.
"He was a natural pick after last year and with the pitchers we ended up trading away," Bob Melvin said of McCarthy.
"He's been focused this spring knowing he has to get ready a little earlier. He looks like he's in midseason form."
McCarthy Will Start For A's On Opening Day