Smoltz thinking pen, but Cox not so sure

WASHINGTON — Bobby Cox prefers having John Smoltz in Atlanta's rotation.

That doesn't mean the Braves manager isn't open to talking about having the right-hander return to the bullpen after his stint on the disabled list.

Asked Wednesday whether Smoltz could go back to being a closer, Cox said: "We are always thinking about it."

In the next breath, Cox added: "I like him as a starter."

The 40-year-old Smoltz went on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday with an ailing right shoulder.

Smoltz, the only pitcher in major league history with at least 200 wins and 150 saves, told MLB.com he was returning to the bullpen.

"I'm coming back as a reliever first and then we'll see what happens," Smoltz said during a late Wednesday afternoon telephone conversation.



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