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Smoltz's Shoulder Still Sore

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The Associated Press

The Tampa Tribune

Published: May 20, 2008

ATLANTA - Braves ace John Smoltz still has inflammation and discomfort in his right shoulder, leaving him unsure when he'll be able to pitch again.

Smoltz has been on the disabled list since April 29. He hopes to learn more after throwing on the side today.

The 41-year-old Smoltz reported problems after his bullpen sessions Thursday and Saturday. He has a long history of pitching well while dealing with mild discomfort and said that if all goes well today, his plans for a minor-league rehab stint this month "could very easily fast-track."

Smoltz has been on the disabled list twice this season with a sore right shoulder. He says his current three-week stint could grow much longer if his attempts to throw make the trouble worse.

"See, if I keep creating more inflammation there's my answer," he said. "That's just what I have to deal with. ... I have to deal with my body showing me a reaction, whether it been a day later or two days later. Until I have that answer I can't really follow anything else."

MARLINS: Outfielder Jacque Jones, cut by Detroit two weeks ago, reached a minor league deal with Florida on Monday and is expected to soon become their starting center fielder.

Jones will first report to extended spring training in Jupiter.

YANKEES: Alex Rodriguez is set to rejoin New York tonight after finishing his rehabilitation of a strained right quadriceps.

"I'm excited to get back into Yankee Stadium and playing baseball. It's where I belong," Rodriguez said after going 2-for-6 in an extended spring training game Monday.

Rodriguez, sidelined since April 28, doubled and singled in six at-bats against Philadelphia minor league right-hander Reginal Simon. He also reached on error, struck out and flied out twice, making him 3-for-10 with a homer in two extended spring training games.

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