Braves Return Smoltz to DL

Atlanta right-hander John Smoltz was put back on the 15-day disabled list for the fourth time in less than two years because of a strained right elbow.

Smoltz (8-3), who had surgery on the elbow in the winter of 1998 and was on the DL twice last season despite a 17-3 record, also went on the list May 15 and came back June 1. Since then, he has been 3-2 with two no-decisions.

“There’s inflammation there and it needs rest,” Smoltz said. “Hopefully it’ll calm down and I’ll be able to resume pitching soon. I’m not going to pick up a ball for 10 days.”

Rookie left-hander Bruce Chen, who was 0-0 with a 4.50 earned-run average in two starts with Atlanta when Smoltz went on the DL earlier in the season, was recalled from triple-A Richmond.

The Braves also found out that the injury to catcher Javy Lopez’s right knee might be more serious than originally believed.

Lopez, on the 15-day DL since June 20 because of a strain, took batting practice for the first time since the injury Monday night, but couldn’t squat.

When asked if he would be out for the rest of the season, Lopez replied: “I can’t answer that question.”

*

Boston put left-hander Mark Guthrie on the 15-day DL because of a strained right Achilles. Infielder Chad Fonville was promoted from triple-A Pawtucket. . . . Montreal first baseman Brad Fullmer’s future with the team remains in doubt after his refusal to go to triple-A Ottawa, his second demotion of the season.

Houston optioned infielder Russ Johnson to triple-A New Orleans and called up right-hander Wade Miller. Miller was 9-5 with a 4.01 ERA for New Orleans. . . . Cincinnati pitcher Denny Neagle is leaning toward staying with the Reds rather than exercise his right to demand a trade at the end of the season.