Mets' Collins wants Santana to start Opening Day

New York Mets manager Terry Collins said Tuesday that hopes ace Johan Santana will open the season April 1 against the San Diego Padres.

"My guess is that's what it'll be," Collins told ESPNNewYork.com.

Santana threw the first no-hitter in Mets history last June 1, but posted an 8.27 ERA over his next 10 starts and was shut down in August with lower-back inflammation.

Collins attributed Santana's poor run and eventual stint on the disabled list to fatigue.

"He said he feels great, and he said the rest has really made a difference," Collins said.