If you're among those who recall right-hander John Smoltz saying a return to the rotation was imperative for his health, there's a reasonable explanation why Smoltz started talking about going back to the bullpen the moment he landed on the 15-day disabled list with inflammation in his right rotator cuff and biceps muscle.

The difference is that the latest aches and pains are in his shoulder, not his elbow.

The typical wear and tear on a bullpen arm is evident in Smoltz's medical history. He's had elbow surgery four times and his right arm -- and shoulder -- has became a focal point for Atlanta.

The shoulder and biceps, Smoltz believes, are sore because of the intense work he put in developing and harnessing a changeup in spring training.

Using Smoltz at the back end of the bullpen could be a best-case scenario for the Braves, too. Injuries have piled up and incumbent closer Rafael Soriano remains slowed by arm issues. While the rotation options are limited and replacing Smoltz won't be easy, shifting him back to the closer's role could aid the team's late-inning woes.

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