Braves 6, Indians 0

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (AP) --Chuck James and the rest of the Atlanta Braves' starting pitchers are heading into the final stage of spring training looking strong.

James overcame control problems to throw five scoreless innings on Monday, lowering his ERA to 2.57 in the Braves' 6-0 win over the Cleveland Indians.

James gave up four hits but walked three. He loaded the bases in the second with two walks after Casey Blake's double, then pitched out of the jam.

"I definitely was reminded why we have a pitching coach again," said James, who met with Roger McDowell after every inning "so I didn't feel goofy throwing."

Atlanta's starters have stellar ERAs. Buddy Carlyle, who has not allowed a run in 10 innings, is followed by Lance Cormier (1.29), Tim Hudson (1.80) and John Smoltz (1.93). Braves starters have a 2.25 ERA, allowing 18 earned runs in 72 innings.

"I think a lot of the guys are ready to go," manager Bobby Cox said.

Scott Thorman, who takes over this year at first base following the trade of Adam LaRoche, hit his first homer and drove in three runs.

"That was a good feeling," Thorman said of his two-run drive off Rafael Betancourt in the eighth. "It's just about getting your timing down and feeling comfortable at the plate."

Cleveland starter Adam Miller allowed three hits and one walk in five scoreless inning. He has given up eight hits in 14 scoreless innings over three starts.

"He has been as impressive as anybody in camp," Cleveland manager Eric Wedge said. "When you look at a young pitcher getting three starts, you can't ask for much more than he has done here. It was great to get our eyes on him and see him go out there and perform."

Wedge has set his rotation to start the season: C.C. Sabathia, Jake Westbrook, Jeremy Sowers, Paul Byrd and Fausto Carmona, who will fill in until Cliff Lee returns from an abdominal strain.

Miller said he won't complain if sent to Triple-A Buffalo.

"I really wasn't planning on making the team," he said. "I was just happy to have a chance to pitch. They've already got five great starters. They don't need me right now, but when they do I'll be ready."

Aaron Fultz gave up four runs in two innings. Brian McCann hit a run-scoring triple off Fultz in the sixth.

Notes:@ The Indians have begun contract talks about a multiyear contract for Westbrook, who is eligible for free agency after the season. ... Harris started in center. He also has played left field, right field, third base and second base.