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

Yankees manager Joe Torre announced the decision, which was expected, on Wednesday. New York opens the season 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.”

Left fielder Hideki Matsui will likely sit out exhibition games on Thursday and Friday because of a sore left knee.