Smoltz to miss start due to tightness in shoulder

KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- The Atlanta Braves are holding John Smoltz out of his scheduled start due to tightness in his right shoulder.

Smoltz first felt the tightness earlier in the week and still felt the discomfort Friday morning, leading manager Bobby Cox to substitute Jeff Bennett as Friday's starter against Cleveland.

Smoltz hopes to start Wednesday against the Nationals, but if he experiences more problems his status for the start of the season could be in doubt.