ATLANTA, June 19 (UPI) -- Paul Byrd tossed seven outstanding innings in his season debut Saturday as the Atlanta Braves posted a 4-0 victory over the Cleveland Indians.
After a 17-11 record for Kansas City in 2002, Byrd (1-0) signed a two-year contract with the Braves in December of that year. The 33-year-old righthander pitched just one inning in spring training last season.
After surgery on his pitching elbow on July 1 and four minor league rehabilitation starts, Byrd struck out four and walked none en route to his first victory since Sept. 19, 2002.
Eli Marrero opened the scoring in the second inning with a two-run homer. One inning later, Julio Franco also hit a two-run homer.
Antonio Alfonseca relieved Byrd and gave up two hits in the eighth. John Smoltz got four outs and his 11th save in 12 opportunities.
Jake Westbrook (6-3) allowed four runs and eight hits in five innings.
