AJC > Blog > Archives > 2008 > May > 19
Monday, May 19, 2008
Concerns about Smoltz loom after big weekend
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
First the good news: The Braves took two of three from the A’s over the weekend to improve their home record to an impressive 16-5. Now the bad news: John Smoltz is sounding pessimistic about a May return.
“It could be anywhere between the [late May] timetable I discussed and a lot longer,” Smoltz told Dave O’Brien on Sunday after feeling some discomfort following his Thursday and Saturday bullpen sessions.
The part that worries me is the ‘a lot longer.’ That phrase has a different meaning when you’re 41 years old, as opposed to, say, 31. And another phrase from DOB’s story that’s got to be cause for concern: “… there’s no guarantee that complete rest for a longer period would knock out the inflammation.”
We all know that unless his arm falls off, Smoltz will do everything in his power to pitch again — and soon. That’s evidenced by his willingness to change his delivery or arm angle if the problem persists, which could mean a short-term gain in exchange for bigger issues later.
Obviously the possibility exists that he might not be the same again. How concerned are you about that? If Smoltz can’t come back in full form, what effect do you think that would have on the psyche of the team, not to mention the quality of the staff?
And if he does, do you think pitching an inning at a time out of the ‘pen would work well, or will Bobby Cox be unable to resist the temptation to use him too often?
On a couple of lighter notes:
• My favorite Skip quote from the weekend: “So far, this has been as much fun as an alimony payment.” — in the third inning of Saturday night’s game, with the Braves trailing 5-0.
• Dale Murphy’s son Jake took batting practice at the Ted on Saturday and had a tryout with the Braves on Sunday.
Upcoming TV Schedule
Monday: Off-day
Tuesday: vs. Mets, 1:00, Peachtree TV; 7:00, SportSouth
Wednesday: vs. Mets, 7:00, FSN South
Thursday: vs. Mets, 7:00, Peachtree TV
Friday: vs. D’backs, 7:30, Peachtree TV
Saturday: vs. D’backs, 3:55, FOX
Sunday: vs. D’backs, 1:30, SportSouth
Monday: vs. D’backs, 1:00, SportSouth
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