Saturday, June 25, 2011

Busts Pt. 16: John Smoltz

Sometimes, offseason acquisitions work out. Sometimes they don't. Sometimes, they are spectacular failures.JOHN SMOLTZ
John Smoltz will be in the Hall of Fame some day. But that has absolutely nothing to do with his short time with the Boston Red Sox. Smoltz had proven his ability as both a terrific starter and an excellent closer during his time with the Braves. He wanted to return to Atlanta for his final season in 2009, but felt like the team did not want him, so he spurned their offer and signed a contract with the Red Sox.

With Boston, Smoltz really showed his age. The 42 year old pitched to a record of 2-5 with an 8.33 ERA in eight games. He did strike out 33 against only nine walks in 40 innings, but it was clear he was not going to be much help in the rotation for the Red Sox.

The Red Sox decided to eat his contract and cut him loose. He did catch on with the Cardinals and improved somewhat, but retired at the end of the season.

Smoltz will go down as one of those pitchers who hung on just a little longer than he should have and played with some teams that will be forgotten about in a few years.

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