Nationals' Scherzer named Opening Day starter

The Washington Nationals aren't wasting any time unveiling their $210-million investment. 

Right-hander Max Scherzer will get the ball for Opening Day at home on April 6 against the New York Mets. 

It's the first time the 2013 AL Cy Young winner has been anointed the honor, as Scherzer unseats Stephen Strasburg, who kick-started the last three of the Nationals' seasons. 

"This rotation, one through five, can all start Opening Day. This is a good problem to have," Scherzer told Bill Ladson of MLB.com. "[Pitching on Opening Day] doesn't mean anything. Going out there, winning ballgames and competing in October -- that's what means the most. That's the only thing that matters. Opening Day is more publicity than anything."

Scherzer agreed to a seven-year deal with the Nationals in January, making him the highest-paid pitcher on the team.

The 30-year-old went 18-5 with a 3.15 ERA and 252 strikeouts in 33 starts last season with the Detroit Tigers.