28 February 2006
The Braves want to
open this year with Tim Hudson.
I'm pretty sure this is psychological for Hudson. He took the back seat to Smoltz last season, beginning with Smoltz's opening day start. This might give him more confidence.
The Braves want to take it easier on Smoltz's 38 year old arm this year so he will be fresher at the end of the season and hopefully in a postseason. Also, remembering how Smoltz was too hyped up for his Opening Day dud last year and knowing that he historically hasn't done well on Opening Day, it's probably a good idea.
