SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Rangers left-handed pitcher C.J. Wilson was named the club's Opening Day starter by manager Ron Washington on Tuesday.

It's no surprise that Wilson, who led the club with 15 wins in 2010, will be the first pitcher on the mound when the Rangers open the season against the Red Sox on April 1.

"It's cool," Wilson said. "That gives me a chance to make 34 or 35 starts."

Washington said Wilson earned the role based on how consistent he was in 2010.

"He took the ball and did the job," Washington said. "He never backed down. He battled all year for us."