Article:The Tomahawk Times - Tendinitis lands Smoltz on 15-day DL

WASHINGTON D.C. -- The Atlanta Braves were forced to place right-hander John Smoltz on the 15-day disabled list prior to Tuesday's contest against the Washington Nationals due to biceps tendinitis.

Smoltz was diagnosed with an inflamed biceps tendon and an inflamed rotator cuff on Tuesday, forcing the 40-year old to the DL for the second time this season. Dr. James Andrews examined Smoltz in Birmingham, Alabama, and has determined that surgery will not be necessary. There has been no timetable set for a return date.

"It's been inflamed for a while now and he's pitched with it, but it just got worse last Sunday," said Braves manager Bobby Cox. "The smart thing to do is to shut him down for a couple of weeks and see where we are at that point."

The New York Mets battered Smoltz around in his start on Sunday for four runs in four inning of work, including a pair of homeruns. Following the game, Smoltz admitted that his fastball did not have its usual velocity and he was unable to work his way into a groove because of discomfort in his shoulder.

Atlanta does get Tom Glavine back for his scheduled start against Washington in the series opener. Mike Hampton has also recently gone on a rehab stint with Triple-A Richmond.

"We've got Mike Hampton groomed to pitch on the 10th [of May]," said Cox.

Hampton has not pitched in a regular season game since August of 2005, but could be nearing his season debut within the next two weeks. He will make  his next start in Wednesday's contest against the Durham Bulls.

Cox also remarked that the Braves will probably look to Richmond for a starter for Smoltz' next scheduled start on Saturday against Cincinnati. Chuck James or Jo-Jo Reyes  would be the most likely candidates.