Don’t Give Up on Smoltz
Before writing off John Smoltz’s season as a complete failure, keep in mind that he is still shaking off the rust after a long layoff. His slider has been working well for him, which shows that he still has something left in the tank. The runs he has given up have are the result of missed location with his fastball: the velocity is there, he just needs to locate. Accuracy will come with more work so I expect improvement from Smoltz with each start. He’s still in a sort of “spring training” mode.
July 31st, 2009 at 10:36 pm
Smoltz was a great pitcher. Past tense. He’s 42 and it seems that the experiment with aging pitchers shows that for the most part, they aren’t worth it.
If the Sox want to stay in the hunt for the pennant they will need reliable and consistent pitching. Sure, let Smoltz shake off the rust - in the minors. In the meantime, bring up someone who is sharper,
August 2nd, 2009 at 11:05 am
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August 7th, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Smoltz is done as a starter. He’s sharp for two to three innings and the ball starts coming up thigh and belt high and Major League hitters are teeing off. It looked like home run derby in the Bronx last night. Unfortunately it’s becoming predictable. Put him in the pen or open up a roster spot for Bowden.
August 11th, 2009 at 3:26 pm
I agree. I think he’ll take a minor league assignment until rosters expand. He can compete
and I believe he will be one of the deciding factors in the playoffs. Hopefully the bats
can come around!!