Parra shares laugh with Upton during return

PHOENIX -- When D-backs outfielder Gerardo Parra saw Braves outfielder Justin Upton on the field during batting practice Monday, he warned his former teammate not to try and challenge his arm during the game.

The two laughed about the challenge.

Then in the seventh inning, Upton was on second when there was a fly ball to medium right field. Parra caught the ball and when he fired the ball to third base, he nearly hit Upton, who was standing on second base.

Upton looked out towards Parra with a big smile and the two friends shared a quick moment.

"That's my buddy," Parra said. "That's my brother. Good guy, good person, good player."

Parra asked if it was strange seeing Upton wearing an Atlanta uniform for the first time.

"It's different to see him wearing that uniform," Parra said. "But it's the same guy, the same good man."