Braves manager Bobby Cox hasn’t announced an opening day starter, but it doesn’t seem to matter.

Everyone in camp is certain it will be John Smoltz, the 18-year Brave returning to the rotation after saving 144 games the past three seasons.

“It’s obvious,” said newcomer Tim Hudson, the winningest pitcher in the American League over the past five seasons with Oakland. “It’d be an honor to do it, but even if they were to ask me to, I’d want Smoltz to be the guy.

“He’s the guy who definitely deserves it more than anybody. I wouldn’t be comfortable doing it. No chance. Even if everybody wanted me to.”

April 10th seems to be Smoltz’s first home game. I’m buying my ticket. Horacio Ramirez is the predicted Apr. 9 (home opener) starter.