--3B Chipper Jones has taken over the locker formerly used by RHP John Smoltz. It has better access to the training rooms and a better view of the clubhouse TVs, but the move is also symbolic; the locker is at the head of the clubhouse. The opposite prime spot still belongs to LHP Tom Glavine.
--LHP Mike Gonzalez worked hard at rehab last season from Tommy John surgery, then worked just as hard when he returned to the team, concentrating on throwing strikes. He took more time off than usual over the winter just for the mental break. --RHP Tim Hudson, rehabbing from Tommy John surgery, has strengthened his rotator cuff, which is allowing him to raise his right arm higher than he's been able to raise it in at least four years. That's where his arm needs to be for him to be effective.
--RHP Tommy Hanson, the Braves' prime pitching prospect, wasn't kidding when he said recently, "I'm tired of sitting around." He was throwing with authority off the indoor mound Feb. 6 as the team's early pitching program wrapped up at Turner Field. Most pitchers, rookies and veterans, use the throwing camp simply to get the kinks out.
--1B Casey Kotchman has signed a one-year, $2,885,000 deal, leaving only two unsigned arbitration-eligible players: 2B Kelly Johnson and RF Jeff Francoeur.
BY THE NUMBERS: 31 -- Pitchers on the Braves' training camp roster ... so far.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "Frank's not done yet." -- Manager Bobby Cox, suggesting that general manager Frank Wren will be making more moves.
Play FOX Fantasy Baseball today
