ATLANTA (AP) -John Smoltz returned to the Atlanta Braves as a reliever, 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.Copyright © 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.