BRADENTON, Fla. — Oliver Perez is scheduled to be the first Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher to start on consecutive opening days since Francisco Cordova in 1998 and 1999. Only a few days ago, he wouldn't have expected such an honor.

Zach Duke figured to be the April 3 starter in Milwaukee, but manager Jim Tracy felt that would be putting unnecessary pressure on a 22-year-old who wasn't in the majors on opening day a year ago. So Tracy chose Perez, who also started last year's opener against the Brewers.

One difference: Perez looked to be staff ace a year ago after a standout 2004 season in which he struck out 239 and had a 2.98 ERA. This time, he is coming off a disappointing season — his ERA climbed by nearly three runs per game, and he had only about half as many strikeouts as he did in 2004.

"I'll pitch any spot. I'm happy to be starting the first game," he said. "I'll follow my routine and be ready for that game."