John Smoltz named Opening Day starter
Barring injury, we all knew from day one who the Braves’ starter would be come opening day April 5th against the Marlins… But Bobby Cox finally made it official today. It will be John Smoltz facing Josh Beckett. As if all he has done for the Braves organization over the past 16 years wasn’t enough to earn the distinction, he has held opponents scoreless in 14 innings of work this spring! In fact, the 5 Braves starting pitchers have compiled a sensational 2.31 ERA this spring. The flip side is the rest of the pitching staff has posted a cumulative 6.43 ERA! I’ve been speculating about Schuerholz dealing for a reliever to shore up the bullpen for months. Well, we can’t wait any longer. I expect some kind of move any day now as the bullpen is taking a turn for the worse (and Gabe White was released). 
