Atlanta Braves Set 2008 MLB Opening Day Roster

Two players placed on disabled list

ATLANTA, 03/29/2008 -- The Atlanta Braves set their 25-man roster for opening day prior to Saturday afternoon's game at Turner Field. Atlanta purchased the contract of catcher Corky Miller, while four players were optioned and two players were reassigned. In addition, right-handed pitcher John Smoltz (right shoulder inflammation) and left-handed pitcher Chuck James (left shoulder rehabilitation) were placed on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to March 21.

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The Atlanta Braves optioned outfielder Josh Anderson, catcher Clint Sammons, right-handed pitcher Buddy Carlyle and left-handed pitcher Jeff Ridgway to Richmond (AAA). Infielder Brent Lillibridge and outfielder Joe Borchard were reassigned to Richmond.

Also, the Atlanta Braves announced that the following players have new uniform numbers: Gregor Blanco will wear number 18, Ruben Gotay will wear number 8 and Martin Prado will now wear number 14.

The Atlanta Braves open the 2008 campaign -- their 43rd in Atlanta -- on Sunday, March 30, at Washington Nationals (8:05 p.m. EST, ESPN). The club's home opener is slated for Monday versus Pittsburgh Pirates (7:10 p.m. EST, Peachtree TV).

The season-opening roster includes 12 pitchers, three catchers, six infielders and four outfielders:

Pitchers (12): Manny Acosta (RH), Jeff Bennett (RH), Blaine Boyer (RH), Tom Glavine (LH), Mike Hampton (LH), Tim Hudson (RH), Jair Jurrjens (RH), Peter Moylan (RH), Will Ohman (LH), Chris Resop (RH), Royce Ring (LH) and Rafael Soriano (RH)

Catchers (3): Brian McCann, Corky Miller, Brayan Pena

Infielders (6): Yunel Escobar, Ruben Gotay, Kelly Johnson, Chipper Jones, Martin Prado and Mark Teixeira

Outfielders (4): Matt Diaz, Jeff Francoeur, Mark Kotsay and Gregor Blanco

Source: MLB