Yankees manager Joe Girardi expects Andy Pettitte to be on a pitch count of about 100 when the veteran southpaw makes his first start in 19 months on Sunday.

"I think 100 pitches is fair to ask of him at this point because I think he went 93, 95, his last two starts and he's had a couple of extra days here so physically he should be good," Girardi said before the Yankees hosted the Mariners Saturday.

Pettitte, 39, will be making his first start in the Bronx since Oct. 18, 2010, when he lost in Game 3 of the ALCS against the Rangers. After coming out of retirement during spring training, Pettitte went 0-2 with a 3.71 in four games in the minor leagues.

Girardi expects that Pettitte won't miss a beat in his return. In 2010, Pettitte went 11-3 with a 3.28 ERA, his lowest ERA in the American League since 2002. He will replace David Phelps in the rotation, and Phelps will be moved back into the bullpen. Girardi said he's not sure if Phelps will be available Saturday, but he would be ready Sunday.

"I kind of expect him to be what he was in 2010. I don't know if that's quite fair after taking a year and a half, but that's what I know," Girardi said. "That's what I'm used to seeing, him grind out starts, him getting big double play balls, doing little things to help himself get out of innings. Those are the things that I'm used to seeing."

The manager said it will be important for Pettitte to pitch like he did in 2010 as the team needs to get consistent pitching in its fight for a playoff spot in the American League. Four teams in American League East have records above .500.

"I think if you look at the division we're in, you look at the American League we're in, and the idea of fighting for a playoff spot, I know it's only May, but I still think you're fighting for a playoff spot," Girardi said. "I think it's really important that Andy is Andy."

As Pettitte progresses through the year, Girardi said he's going to have to use good judgment to determine if the veteran needs an extra day rest, stressing the importance of keeping Pettitte healthy. Girardi added that the team has to be patient with Pettitte through his first few starts, and expects a festive atmosphere Sunday.

"Tomorrow, I worry a little about emotions that could play into it," Girardi said. "Obviously there's going to be a huge buzz around here."