Smoltz to begin season on DL

It seems John Smoltz will begin the season on the DL. He threw today and didn't experience any soreness but the Braves aren't going to change their plans. This gives Smoltz a chance to throw a sim. game and a minor league game in Rome before coming off the DL on the 6th of April. That date will be a home game against the Mets, on a Sunday, he will be going against Johan Santana, the Mets #1 starter.

I think this is a very wise move by the Braves. It gives Smoltz some added rest to that shoulder plus he can work on some of his pitches. He actually will not miss a start due to a weird day off between the opening day with Pittsburgh on Monday and the next game on Wednesday. The Braves wouldn't need a 5th starter until the 6th of April, which is when John comes off the DL.

The Braves are backdating his trip to the DL so the timing works out just right.