Smoltz believes he has plenty of innings left in his arm: John Smoltz's career 3.04 ERA in April is his lowest for any month. Doubts about his return to the rotation will fade quickly if he gets off to another fast apart

"He could be a great center fielder," a Sox official says.

speed reads

The writers blew it, and now the Veterans Committee is blowing it: Former Cubs third baseman Ron Santo should be in the Hall of Fame. Santo's career .826 OPS is more than 100 points higher than Brooks Robinson's and is only 30 points lower than George Brett's. Nine All-Star Games, five Gold Gloves-what exactly is the problem?

After rushing B.J. Upton last season, the Devil Rays can't repeat their mistake. Upton, 20, should open the season playing shortstop at Class AAA. He ultimately might be better off in the outfield or at third base, but it's too soon to give up on him at short. Shame on the Rays if they screw this kid up.

If forced to choose between potential free agents, the Padres should re-sign catcher Ramon Hernandez over outfielder Brian Giles. Catchers are a rarer commodity, and Giles' OPS has declined for three straight seasons. Hernandez, who will turn 29 in May, is more than five years younger than Giles and still is improving.

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