He's back: Smoltz returns to Braves as reliever

ATLANTA - John Smoltz returned to the Atlanta Braves as a reliever on Monday, hoping the role he had from 2001-04 will help him cope with an aching right shoulder and extend his career.

The 41-year-old Smoltz was activated before the start of a four-game series against the Florida Marlins. The Braves shipped right-hander Phil Stockman to Triple-A Richmond to make room on the roster for Smoltz.

Smoltz had 154 saves with the Braves during his previous stint as a closer. He's been a starter through most of his career and is the only pitcher in baseball history with at least 200 wins and 150 saves.