Jose ready to go seven innings in opener

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- As a rookie a year ago, Jose Fernandez was restricted by an innings limit that ended up being at 172 2/3.

When the 21-year-old takes the mound on Monday in the Marlins' season opener against the Rockies at Marlins Park, Fernandez projects to be built up enough to throw seven innings.

The Spring Training plan was to get all the starters ready to reach 100 pitches in their first starts.

"I think everyone is ready to pitch seven innings and throw 110 pitches if we need to," pitching coach Chuck Hernandez said.

Fernandez reached 98 pitches on Tuesday against the Cardinals in his final Grapefruit League start.

The way the schedule was laid out, Fernandez will get an extra day of rest before facing the Rockies on Monday.

"Pitching-wise, we've got them where we want it," Hernandez said. "Based on their youth and their arms, that's how I like to treat young ones. Older guys, I'd probably throw a little bit more. Everyone is going to get another day of rest, which I wanted."