Liriano won't just be opening the Pirates' season, either. The Bucs and Cardinals will play the first game of Major League Baseball's regular-season schedule.
The 32-year-old left-hander will make his third straight Opening Day start, becoming the first Pirates pitcher to begin three consecutive seasons since Doug Drabek from 1990-92. He is the fifth Pirates starter to receive three straight Opening Day nods, joining Drabek, Bob Veale (1964-67), Bob Friend (1956-58, '60-62) and Cy Blanton (1936-39).
"I think it means that I'm being more consistent than I used to be before," Liriano said.