Smoltz gets Glavine, Braves get Mets, 5-3

The biggest moment for John Smoltz in his matchup with former teammate Tom Glavine came in the fourth inning.

The Atlanta Braves were leading, 2-1, but the New York Mets had the bases loaded with two out and Glavine at the plate.

Smoltz got Glavine on a pop to third and the Braves went on to a 5-3 victory Saturday, handing the Mets their first loss of the season.

It was the second time Smoltz had faced Glavine after 15 years as teammates and golf buddies. The Atlanta right-hander also won July 15, 2005, but wasn’t ready to give himself bragging rights.

“No. It’s not necessary. I think bragging rights depend on who wins the division and goes to the World Series,” Smoltz said.

Smoltz (1-0) went six innings and gave up two runs, seven hits, walked four and struck out four.

Glavine (1-1) pitched 5 1/3 innings and was hurt by his defense. The left-hander gave up five runs -- two earned -- four hits, walked three and struck out two. He fell to 3-10 against the Braves since signing a free agent contract with the Mets in 2003.

Glavine said he never thought about the matchup with Smoltz during the game.

“When you’re out there pitching and trying to win the game, it’s difficult to think about that. It’s a little more difficult if it’s a friend out there.... Once the game starts, that’s out the window,” he said.

“It was vintage Glavine,” Smoltz said. “We got a couple of bloop hits and there was a misplay in the outfield. If it weren’t for that, we might still be playing.”

It was the 194th win for Smoltz, who also has 154 saves. Glavine has 291 wins.