John Smoltz tried really, really, really hard to become a productive member of the Atlanta Braves this season but it seems his shoulder troubles are too tough to tame, as the 41 year right-hander will undergo season ending rotator cuff surgery as per the Atlanta Journal Constitution. Smoltz had began the season as a starter but even with his miniscule ERA, his trouble getting passed the fifth inning threw up a giant red flag as to his true health. Smoltz hit the DL for five weeks hoping rest and a new throwing technique would be enough to get him back on the mound, but his lack-luster performance on Monday (a 2 ER blown save) proved it wasn’t. Plus the fact that he reported his shoulder feeling sore after just one inning also wasn't good news.
I'll be the first to admit, I'm not taking this news very well. Of course it's only been about five minutes, so maybe I should wait on this one. But it's looking like we may have seen the last of good old Smoltzie in a Braves uniform. At 41, he really doesn't have the time to mount a huge 2 plus year comeback like say Mike Hampton and I don't see him wanting to return to just pitch in the bullpen. I guess I can just look forward to induction day circa 2014 when Smoltz, Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux will enter in together.
(Photo: AP)
I'll be the first to admit, I'm not taking this news very well. Of course it's only been about five minutes, so maybe I should wait on this one. But it's looking like we may have seen the last of good old Smoltzie in a Braves uniform. At 41, he really doesn't have the time to mount a huge 2 plus year comeback like say Mike Hampton and I don't see him wanting to return to just pitch in the bullpen. I guess I can just look forward to induction day circa 2014 when Smoltz, Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux will enter in together.
(Photo: AP)
It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate
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