Braves' Smoltz throwing again

PITTSBURGH (AP) John Smoltz threw 45 pitches at Pittsburgh's PNC Park Monday, a day after throwing 25 pitches.

Until this weekend, Smoltz had not thrown since lasting only four innings against the Mets in a 6-3 loss on April 27.

Smoltz said he was encouraged because his throwing sessions in Pittsburgh were pain-free.

Smoltz plans to take Tuesday off, then throw Wednesday in Philadelphia. After that, he expects to be evaluated by the Braves medical staff to determine if he can resume throwing off a mound. If he is cleared to throw, he expects to be ready to pitch again in games within two weeks.