Big Unit to throw out first pitch at M's opener

Big Unit to throw out first pitch at M's opener
In this Aug. 8, 1997, file photo, Seattle Mariners pitcher Randy Johnson celebrates his 19th and final strike out in the ninth inning against the Chicago White Sox during a baseball game at the Kingdome, in Seattle.
SEATTLE (AP) - The Big Unit is coming back to Seattle for opening day.

The Mariners announced Thursday that former ace Randy Johnson will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before April 12's home opener against Oakland.

The 46-year-old, five-time Cy Young Award winner retired this month from the San Francisco Giants after 303 wins, 4,875 strikeouts and 22 major league seasons.

Johnson was 130-74 in 10 years with Seattle - his most wins among any of his six teams - before he was traded to Houston midway through 1998. He led the Mariners into their first postseasons in 1995 and '97.