Braves manager Bobby Cox wasn't ready to announce an opening-day starter after the first day of spring training, but John Smoltz insisted it should be an obvious choice: Tim Hudson.

"You can pretty much pencil Huddy in first — in my opinion that's a no-brainer," Smoltz said. "But it does not matter to me. ... I'm past all the opening-day stuff and slot numbers and all that."

Smoltz, the Braves' opening-day starter in 2005 and 2007, finished 14-8 with a 3.11 ERA last season. Hudson, their opening-day starter in 2006, was 16-10 with a 3.33 ERA last season.

So why is the decision a "no-brainer" in Smoltz's view?

"Just where [Hudson] is in his career, and he had a fantastic year," Smoltz said.

Hudson smiled when told what his co-ace said, then looked for Smoltz to bust his chops and ask if he was losing his mind in his advanced age (Smoltz is 40).

"He just doesn't want to pitch against the Nationals," Hudson joked, referring to the Braves' season opener at Washington on March 30, before a three-game home series vs. Pittsburgh beginning March 31.

Like Smoltz, Hudson said he didn't care who starts opening day or whether he pitches first, second or even third in the rotation, should Cox put left-hander Tom Glavine between Smoltz and Hudson.

The Braves have plenty of options for the rotation order, which could depend in part on the number of lefties. Glavine is in the rotation, barring injury. Lefty Mike Hampton is also presumably in, if he can get through spring training in one piece.

Incumbent lefty Chuck James is not assured a spot, with rookie right-hander Jair Jurrjens leading a group of competitors that includes lefty Jo-Jo Reyes and right-hander Jeff Bennett.

"It doesn't really matter between [Smoltz] and I who pitches first," Hudson said. "But I think he definitely should. He had a better year than I did. He's older, balder, a better golfer ..."