Smoltzie on the mend; Hampton seriously hurt in toenail-clipping accident

I forgot -- we don't talk about Hampton anymore. Not so with Smoltzie, who is optimistic after throwing Sunday without pain.

Smoltz, who turns 42 on Thursday, said throwing off the mound, and with the arm extension required to keep pitches down in the strike zone, were two bigger tests than the easy, chest-high throws he made Sunday.

But he's confident about returning to the active roster this month.

"I had that in mind since I went on the DL," Smoltz said, "and I still think that's going to come true."

I believe him. More good news: BMF is inching closer towards a return. DOB speculates the Braves might use both in the closer's role, though don't discount Gonzo.

--CB

Comments

[PepeFreeUs]

Not to pick nits, or to take a shot at the generally fine Dave O'Brien, but John's going to turn 41 Thursday, not 42.

He's a couple of months older than me, which is one reason I've always identified with him.