Smoltz may pitch against Braves in ’09

For Braves fans who can’t stomach the thought of John Smoltz pitching for another team, there’s worse news: He could do so here.

Smoltz has cast his 2009 fortunes with the Red Sox, who just happen to be on the Braves’ interleague schedule this season. Boston plays at Turner Field June 26-28. The Braves will also travel to Boston for a three-game series at Fenway Park the prior week, June 19-21.

Smoltz’s place in the rotation has not been determined, so there’s no guarantee that he’ll face his former team. The right-hander is recovering from last summer’s shoulder surgery, but he is expected to be able to pitch by May.