ajcsportstalk

By 3Pitch

April 26, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

This is a positive move for Braves fans, and it looks like ownership has relaxed the payroll restrictions. I now expect them to make a run at Andruw after JS gets a handle on payroll by signing some of the other players.

By BLEE

April 26, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

I’M FIRST

By BLEE

April 26, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

i’m not first.

By Chris

April 26, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

Bye bye, Andruw.

By Dr. Jay

April 26, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

After watching Andruw strike out last night with the bases loaded…I would have been the first to say Bye Bye Andruw…good riddance. But clearly there’s a lot going on behind the curtains with JS and whoever controls the purse strings these days. Dare I hope that these activities may allow us to keep Smoltz, lock in Francoeur AND Andruw? If they added “just” one more quality starter (which should have been Hampton…shazbot!!) we’d really have a shot at the World Series for the next 3 or 4 years.

By JB

April 26, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

The same moron that types up the poll choices must type up these AJC authored blogs.

By Mike

April 26, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

How old is Smoltz?? Did you see the temper trantrum he threw in the dugout after his last screw up? The man is idolized, yet he acts like a two-year old. Go figure.

By Scott Summers

April 26, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Good bye Andruw, hello Gregor Blanco

By Brave Nation

April 26, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

Kudos to the Braves for locking up Smoltz. He has meant more to this franchise than arguably any other player and he deserves to retire a Brave. How long he can pitch effectively is of less importance as the Braves are in the twilight of their run. I just wish that the team could have delivered a couple more WS titles to John and the city.

Regarding Andruw, no contract should even be offered. He refuses to listen to Pendleton or any other hitting coach from the past. He is and always will be a free swinger who can’t be counted on in key moments. Just look at how disciplined Mcann is at the plate and how Francouer is making adjustments this year to go to right field. Andruw just keeps being Andruw. $18M a year is better spent on Pitching and locking up our new position talent. Andruw may work on a team like Boston or the Yankees that are so loaded that Andruw can swing away in the 7th position.

By Fish

April 26, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

$14 MILLION?????? Damn, there goes our chances of getting some top notch players added to the roster the next 2 years. Smoltz is still good but he is at the end of his career and has a history of arm troubles. I would not have paid anything over $10 and would have a hard time doing that.

By jay

April 26, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

Fish, what are you talking about? That deal is a bargain for the Braves. Who do you propose we replace him with?

Andruw is the disposable one.

By PABravefan

April 26, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

Do you people realize what 14 million will get you in free agency? Nada!!! The cubs gave some guys like Marquis 8 Mill a year and Ted Lilly got 10-11 mill a year. Are you all trying to tell me, that Smoltz isn’t worth 3 mill more than Lilly? We know one thing, if you get him to the playoffs, he will give you the best chance to win. On the open market he would have atleast gotten that much!! Boston, New York (Mets and Yanks), Anaheim, all would have probably given him AT LEAST 16 Million per. I for one am happy! I couldn’t stand to watch another one of our heroes go somehwere else and come back in another uniform. I just wish this deal with Liberty would have been done a long time ago. Maybe we would have had Glavine back this year too. Imagine that rotation! Hudson, Smoltz, Glavine, James. WOW! I think there is something going on behind closed doors that we done’t know about, and I have a gut feeling that when Liberty takes over, they are going to raise the payroll by at least 20 Million. Jiust think about it. When was the last time the Brave locked up 2 guys this early in the season. Hopefully we will be able to go out at the trade deadline or before and get another quality starter, and a first baseman or left fielder. GO BRAVES!!

By DAWG

April 26, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

I’m glad to see that Smoltz’s career will end in Atlanta. Honestly, I can only see him pitching one more year. His last few starts have shown that his age is starting to catch up with up, now I’m afraid that Smoltzie can only last about 5 maybe 6 innings tops. Just think of the money that would be available if it wasn’t being pi$$ed away on Hampton. Andruw is a lost cause. He’s already shown in the first month of the season, it’s a homer or nothing with him. He’s swinging for the fences on every pitch, because he’s hoping to put up huge numbers in his contract year. If he’s not careful, this will backfire in his face. Could you see that, Andruw and his agent trying to negotiate a 17-20 million a year deal after he puts up a .230 avg. with 20 or so HR and 80 RBI!

By Peter

April 26, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Andruw is at his hottest during the hottest time of the season. He always hits and he’s done it for years.

Let’s not even talk about what he gives you in the field. Plus losing a player like that and gettig nothing in return sends out a message to the rest of MLB.

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 26, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

It’s a nice sentimental move. At least one member of the miracle ‘91 team gets to start and finish his major league career as a Brave. I don’t know if it’s a great move financially, considering the pending sale of the team. The key really is whether the Braves can get out from under Hampton’s deal. If they can, this deal won’t hurt them too much going into free agency next year. But I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the chance to finish his career with this franchise. A well deserved contract for Smoltz.

By gotigers72

April 26, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

WAY TO GO BRAVES1 That’s some fantastic GMing there JS. No way Smoltz should end his career anywhere but Atlanta. He has had a below average salary for a pitcher of his quality for quite some time now. Glad to see the Braves gave him a salary commensurate with his ability. I think he will continue to be a prime time pitcher this year and next, after that, who knows. But it seems like pitchers are having longer and longer careers nowadays, so it’s possible he could get 4 more out of his most excellent arm. I’m just glad to see the Braves did right by somebody that has been so loyal to the only major league team he has ever played for. He is indeed a rarity, and us Braves fans have been lucky to have seen a future HOFer pitch for our team. Kudos to Bobby Cox for making the trade that brought Smoltz to Atlanta.

Frenchy should definitely be next. A superstar in the making. I don’t know if we’ll be able to afford Andruw. He says he wants to remain a Brave, but Boras ain’t gonna give a hometown discount.

By Jim

April 26, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

It is painfully obvious John Smoltz is only capable of pitching a maximum of five innings, per start. How about putting Smoltz in the bullpen as the Braves’ closer? This would help stabilize the bullpen, and also free up a spot in the rotation for a quality starter.

By bhall

April 26, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

I’m glad we’re taking care of Smoltz, God knows he deserves it. But in light of Bobby’s comments about retirement, the impending sale of the team, and recent organizational managment personnel losses are you wondering if maybe Schuerholz is just setting the team up for his own retirement. In essence taking care of Smoltz and stocking the cupboard so to speak with McCann so that he leaves this thing better than he found it? Just a thought.

By Scott

April 26, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

This is a great move. As far as the folks who say “Dump Andrew” — you are drinking. He is a Hall of Famer. He will end up with 12+ gold gloves and over 600 home runs. Just think Ozzie Smith with lots of power. He is worth the money b/c of his defense. 45 home runs are just a plus.

By Matt

April 26, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

Thank goodness! This is a great move by the Braves to make sure that the front of their rotation is good for the next three years. This also almost guarantees that Smoltzy will finish his career with the Braves. I hope that they will sign Francouer soon..he’s our center fielder next year if Andruw doesn’t sign back up with the Braves. Does anybody know if the Braves have any outfield prospects that might be ready next year? Also, anybody know if the Braves are looking for someone to take over an outfield spot and hit major numbers?

By Spike

April 26, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

Jim Nice observation. We’re struggling to find starting pitching and have one of the best bullpens in baseball. Let’s lose a starter and send Smoltz to the pen. Brilliant.

By serbok

April 26, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

its been wonderful watching smoltz pitch all these years~ 14 million is alot of money for a pitcher who suddenly seems to be a six inning starter?

By Matt

April 26, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

You guys are always so negative. Most of you were just saying at the start of the season that the Braves better not let Smoltz walk. Now you think they paid too much. Yankees would have given him 16 or 17. Who else would we replace him with?

By Cleanuphitter16

April 26, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

Smoltz should stay a Brave. Of course, I felt that about Tommy too, but oh well. However, upping John’s salary by 6 million next year would seem to completely eliminate any chance of signing Andruw. There is just no way to make both this pay increase to Smoltz, and a Boras contract for Andruw coexist UNLESS there is a payroll raise coming that Braves Nation doesn’t know about. And I think we all know that’s about as likely as Redman pitching a no-hitter….not gonna happen.

By Stigmatta

April 26, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Count me among those who have grown weary of Smoltz’s constant complaining on the mound—his attitude that every pitch within 8 inches of the strike zone should go his way.

I wish he’d go his way to another team and we’d use that money for some younger players.

By wont 2 no

April 27, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

What happened with SMOLTZ and his wife? Who cheated on who? Im just askin….

By DAP

April 27, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

smoltz is the man and this signing is a good one. im very happy with it. those of you who are hating on smoltz need to get a new team, because smoltz IS the braves. i dont think 14mil is to much at all, because of the crazy free agent market these days. hes a much better pitcher than zito! plus, he has been so underpaid the last three years. i dont think he will pitch four more years though. i hope his last game is a win in the world series!

frenchy definetly should be locked up next, no doubt about it.

as far as andruw goes, i said at the beginning of the season that this offense couldnt do without him, that we definetly need him in the linup and we would have a huge hole without him. i still think it would be the best thing to resign him, but after seeing this offense perform without him doing much of anything, i think we really could survive without him. i think he is due a modest offer for a pay raise from the braves, MAYBE 15-16mil but absolutely no more than that.

if andruw leaves (which i hope he wont) he use the money to get a left fielder and bring up one of our young guys to patrol center.

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 27, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

great news for the braves, smoltz, and the fans. out of any players in history, i’m glad that he will be one of the few that will have played with only one team. he has done wonders for the club, and it’s great to see the braves return his loyalty and superb performance by extending his contract like this.

By Atlanta Hawks #1 Fan

April 27, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Way to go Braves. It’s about time they invest in a superstar at the end of his career. Smoltz still has a lot left in the tank and I’m glad we will continue to see him in Atlanta. 14 million isn’t a lot of money considering everything he does in the community. Next up is Andruw. Sign him to a long term agreement.

Rich Guys Trophy Wife http://www.richguystrophywife.com

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 27, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

no doubt, frenchy is next on the list. hopefully smoltz’s extension will give bobby cox pause, and he’ll consider staying around as long as smoltz does. it’d be great if it does the same for andruw, too; otherwise, it’s been great having you andruw.

By Vivek

April 27, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Are some of you guys really that crazy? Smoltzie IS the braves. When this franchise is in trouble financially he took less money to stay here. Now it’s the braves turn to repay the man. Not glavine not chipper it smoltz that is the heart of the braves. I for one am glad that he will hang it up in a braves uni.

By Smoltzsux

April 27, 2007 1:43 AM | Link to this

I hate the punk. Of all the 90’s pitchers we wound up with this idiot staying. Damn.

By MemphisBrave

April 27, 2007 1:57 AM | Link to this

I wonder if this signing is a signal of an increase in payroll flexibility in 2008? Don’t get me wrong- I am very excited that Smoltz is staying in Atlanta- but I just wonder if this move would have been made for $14 million if the HARD payroll of $80 million is in tact for 2008.

It took JS until late September to pick Smoltz up for $8 million this year. Makes you wonder what has changed!

By coco rubio

April 27, 2007 2:03 AM | Link to this

i had a dream that andruw jone broke barry bonds homerun record and did it in a braves uniform…..smoltz deserves to retire in a braves uniform…..and i hope they bury bobby cox in his…….go braves……looking good so far!!!

By Coach

April 27, 2007 2:12 AM | Link to this

Cox drafted Chipper and traded for Smoltz. Why is it no surprise that the two of them will retire as Braves.

By Steven

April 27, 2007 2:42 AM | Link to this

I think 14 mil is a little high for a 80 mil payroll. This may come to bite us when key players are eligible for arbitration. BUT, this will prove to be great if the new ownership raises the payroll at least 10 mil by 2009.

By Hunk Erdown

April 27, 2007 3:30 AM | Link to this

If Liberty is indeed loosening up the payroll like it appears, they will garner some respect and probably sell more seats to a grateful Atl fanbase. Let John start for another year or two then let him close for 5 more.

If they can get AJ it would be great, but I don’t see that happening. I don’t blame Andruw for trying to get all he can, I appreciate the fact that he made us a sweet deal a few years ago for the current contract. I still feel like it would be a better investment for Liberty to pay more for a great team’s payroll than to continue to “shortsheet” JS and hope for miracles. They may even develop something that would be worth keeping instead of selling off in a few years.

By serbok

April 27, 2007 3:53 AM | Link to this

I think the smoltz signing is very very cool! I remember first hearing of the trade with the tigers sending doyle alexander to them(who at the time, I believe was something like 12-0 for the braves)I really felt like it was an awesome trade at the time~especially considering alexander was around 39 yrs old at the time. Its been an awesome run watching the big 3 along with avery millwood, burkette etc~ the braves had an awesome run that will probably never be matched! Baseyall~oops~baseball as you all realise is a business? I’m not sure this is a very wise business move~ might get more for the money if smoltsie goes back to the pen?

By Train Wreck Bystander

April 27, 2007 4:43 AM | Link to this

This is not a bad deal for anyone. The Braves get to lock up Smoltz through 2008 for sure, then a series of 1 year options which will keep us from getting Hamptoned again. Smoltz gets to go out a Brave.

Maybe if AJ’s slump stretches out a little longer, we can lock him back in at a discount. He sure isn’t helping himself or Boras out with these plate struggles.

I, for one, think we should resign AJ.

By Bill

April 27, 2007 5:09 AM | Link to this

Pitching is the name of the game.They can survive without AJ. AJ is not a consistant hitter. He stays beat up and I would not invest 18mil in him. Secure another top notch pitcher like Zambrano. Then they would be ready to go with all of the young players in the system.

By Count

April 27, 2007 5:31 AM | Link to this

I think that this shows a few different things: One, I agree that the new front office must be allowing us to stretch our payroll a little more than in the past couple of years. Also, I think this has something to do with the new seating sales where you can buy tickets on credit with no interest. INTERESTING AND PROBABLY HAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH ADDING TO OUR PAYROLL BY SELLING MORE SEATS AND GAINING FANS RESPECT AGAIN! Now we need to sign Francoeur long term and find a replacement for Andruw, since he definitely won’t be around next year. Maybe trade some prospects for a long term solution at centerfield. Go Braves!

By serbok

April 27, 2007 6:13 AM | Link to this

Smoltz going back to the pen~would definitely be a smoltz decision. Not a BC decision~ although it should be! Cox watches a good game~he sure doesnt know how to manage one:o(

By Greg

April 27, 2007 6:21 AM | Link to this

Too. Much. Money.

Not. Worth. It.

By Braves Fan

April 27, 2007 6:32 AM | Link to this

I love this move. John Smoltz is a class act. He still has incredible stuff and probably the most competive guy on the team. Would love to see him finish career in Atlanta. He belongs here. He is also a solid citizen.

By Braves Fan 79

April 27, 2007 6:48 AM | Link to this

when it comes down to cruch time….in a game 7 theres no one on the mound id rather have than Smoltz. Even 2 years from now ill still feel the same way because like roger clemens the mans a competitior!! Hopefully if we loose andrew after this year we can then afford to get Glavine back. And maybe get a good leftfielder or new centerfielder.

And WHY do we even have guys like prado, woodward, wilson on the team when we have guys on FIRE down at triple A??? escobar…salty…especially those 2 id like to c up here. I shure hope by playoff time bobby cox gets rid of anyone thats not hitting at least .240 off the bench. The main difference bt us and the Mets to me is in cruch time we have wilson pitch hitting and they have a great hitter like Julio Franco hitting! Thats really the weak part of the team to me.

By mj

April 27, 2007 6:59 AM | Link to this

Braves management seems to get it right almost every time. The thing I like about the Braves, even with just 1 World Series ring, is that character of the players means everything. Great job and it couldn’t go to a better player. Now if we could get the Falcons to understand this type of management and stop throwing smoke and mirrors up, you could see some long term success in ATL football.

By mo

April 27, 2007 7:09 AM | Link to this

John Smoltz has 2 good years left. He will probably retire after that, or go back to the bullpen.

I think, though, that Smoltz would do a goodbye tour and leave with grace.

As for Andruw Jones, he’s leaving soon, which is a terrible thing for the Braves. If they can still hold on to Andruw though, (which will be a miracle) I think the Braves will have another great run.

By Kaye

April 27, 2007 7:23 AM | Link to this

Andruw has solid defense but is not a grand hitter. He strikes out to much and is very inconsistant. Andruw will slow down in the next several years and I just dont think hes going to be that grand defensive player for much longer. I say let Andruw test the waters.

Smoltz on the other hand is worth the pick up. Hes the face of the Braves and he and the fans both deserve to see him retire a brave. That was a very good move for the club.

By Eddie

April 27, 2007 7:47 AM | Link to this

Great move. Smoltz is the heart and soul of this organization. Some of you people don’t have a clue!

By rlprofessional

April 27, 2007 7:49 AM | Link to this

If Smoltz was black - he would be gone.. Now you want Andrew gone.. I would get rid of Chipper before Andrew - oh I forgot Chipper is white.

The Braves are a entertainment team - nothing more.

By Apaul404

April 27, 2007 8:17 AM | Link to this

Okay look, its April, not June, not July. I don’t anticipate Smoltz having these shorter outings all year. It takes pitchers a while to get all the way in shape when the season starts. I glad they did the right thing.

By North Ga Fan

April 27, 2007 8:20 AM | Link to this

Great move. Great pithcer, as my grandfather would say “wish they all could be like Aaron”, now the younger Braves can watch one of the best for a few more years and learn what it’s all about to be a champ. Wish they could all be like Smoltzie. Andrew will be find he normally starts slow (still the best center fielder that ever played). Now knock the rust off Coach and let him know the Waffle House is’nt ready for him everyday. Love that Coach, he’s a Hall Of Famer for my beloved Braves you know. Grandpa would have been proud of you today John, keep up the good work.

By Josh GT

April 27, 2007 8:26 AM | Link to this

I usually don’t make these kind of blanket statements, but if you don’t like the Smoltz move, YOU ARE NOT A TRUE BRAVES FAN! The man has done more for this organization than any other player.

By tim

April 27, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

TERRIFIC MOVE LOCKING UP SMOLTZY, NOW LETS GET ANDREW SIGNED. PITCHING DAVIES AND REDMAN THEY HAVE GOT TO GO PLEASE TELL ME THERE IS A COUPLE OF MORE CAPABLE ARMS DOWN ON THE FARM.

By TPM

April 27, 2007 8:33 AM | Link to this

14 million dollars for a pitcher who will be lucky if he wins 17 games ! What a way to make a living. At least he is not a dead weight unmovable contract like Mike Hampton.

By raymond

April 27, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

He doesn’t make that kind of money now why have him making more three years from now? This is another poor decision that will weigh they down like Chipper’s contract. I also think this means the Braves know they won’t get Andruw and are starting to get their finances in line.

By kew

April 27, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this

rlprofessional, PLEASE DON’T GO THERE - AND I’M A BLACK MAN.

By Hoosier Aaron

April 27, 2007 8:43 AM | Link to this

Can’t you see where this is going? Smoltzie said he wants to play CENTERFIELD. He’s going to be our new centerfielder next year between starts. Brilliant payroll move - two positions with one salary.

Seriously - thrilled to see this deal.

By bugger

April 27, 2007 8:46 AM | Link to this

Finally and thank heavens! This from a franchise that sadly saw Hank Aaron, Phil Neikro, Dale Murphy and Tom Glavine spend their final seasons elsewhere. Now, who was Doyle Alexander?

By kudzu

April 27, 2007 8:47 AM | Link to this

We need a pitcher…NOW

By braves fan

April 27, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this

Kudos to the Braves for making this deal. A lot of fools on here will question the move and the dollars spent. But Smoltz has been underpaid for a while now and even if he doesn’t pan out over the course of the next 3.5 seasons, he deserves to be paid for laying it all out there for the Braves for 20 years. How many of you out there have shredded your elbow twice for your employer but still came back and gave the same effort as before even though it could result in the same injury? That’s what I thought. Enuff said.

Welcome back for the next few seasons, Smoltzie, and thanks for all you’ve done for our team.

By jim

April 27, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this

And why is it we pay Mike Hampton $15 mil?!?!?!?!?!?!

By braves fan

April 27, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this

Now can we please demote Langerhans and his 1 for 50 nonsense and call up someone who can play LF everyday and provide some offense like a Gregor Blanco or Brandon Jones?

By Roswell Ed

April 27, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

My all time favorite Brave. Class act all the way.

Congrats Mr. Smoltz!!

By Ol' Diz

April 27, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

To:By bugger@8:46 AM How dare you mention Tom “Benedict Arnold” Glavine in the same as Aaron, Niekro, and Murphy. Glavine had an offer to stay a Brave …he chose the $$$$.

By Eric from MO

April 27, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this

In July and August and September when Andruw is carrying the team I dont want to here all of you who are now saying Andruw is bum talking about great he is and how we must sign him back. Also how many times do I have to straighten you all out when Free Agents leave you do get draft picks back. The more the player signs for, the better the draft picks are. That is why the Braves have such a good minor league system because everytime a great player left such as Maddux, Glavine, Lopez, or a Sheffield we got good draft picks back. As for the Smoltz signing I like it. I am a huge Smoltz fan and 14 million, unforunately, is a bargain. To say Smoltz is done because his last start wasnt great is ignorant. Everyone has bad starts. Smoltz is normally better in July and August. He usually gets off to a slow start.

By S Turn

April 27, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

This is awesome. I have been a Braves fan for more than 20 years when I was a little kid watching the games with my grandfather. This is a great reward for a great Brave. I am glad he is staying.

By Ed

April 27, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

Whatever class Smoltz gives the city of Atlana in the sports arena, the ghetto dog-fighting thug Mike Vick takes away and makes us look like a bunch of grilled teeth, do rag…can’t speak English city supporters. Fire that piece of crap crimminal, put him in prison…he’ll end up there sooner or later, they all do.

By Dan

April 27, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

Great pitcher, great leader, great man. What a valuable asset to this organization. Im glad they realized how important it was to sign him . Smoltzie is the face of this organization.

By Eric from MO

April 27, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

Bill you complain about AJ struggling and you say sign Zambrano. Im not saying this is a bad idea, actually I like them both. However, Zambrano has been worst this year than AJ.

By Chris

April 27, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

Looks like Mr. Smoltz has put his love of money over love of God when he resigned with the Braves. When you take into account that the former owner of the Braves, Ted Turner, who is Time Warner’s largest shareholder, has called Christians a bunch of losers, has called President Bush “Hitler”, has referred to FOX News as a propaganda arm of the Bush administration, and can’t decide on who to support in the “War on Terror”, it makes me wonder about Smoltz’s loyalty (and the rest of the Braves while you are at it) to our country or to our enemy. It also makes me wonder if Smoltz agrees with Jack Cafferty of CNN in calling for Bush’s impeachment or if he supported Dennis Kucinich’s remarks on The Situation Room with Wolfgang The Communist Scum Blitzer on Wednesday on impeaching Vice President Cheney. Does Smoltz even realize or care that his Richard Parsons and his bosses at Time Warner care about nothing but defeat of our country, impeaching our President and Vice President, taking our guns away, and silencing the likes of Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, the traitorus Glenn Beck (who works for Headline News), the traitorous Bill Bennett (who works for CNN), the traitorrous Mona Charen (who works for CNN), and the traitorous Charles Krauthammer (who writes for Time). It is time to question not just Smoltz’s patriotism, but the patriotism of the rest of Time Warner, including Southern Living, Sports Illustrated, People Weekly, Fortune, Cooking Light, Charles Barkley (TNT), Dick Stockon (TNT), Bonnie Schneider (CNN), Peter King (SI), Lisa Karlin (People), Betty Ngyeun (CNN). We are at war for our survival. It seems Mr. Smoltz has joined the traitors despite his Christianity and his Republican support of Ralph Reed for the Lt. Gov. nomination last year. God help our country!

By Eric from MO

April 27, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

There is reason to believe may be considering to up the payroll. Insurance will cover 10-12 million of Hamptons contract. For all of you who say move Smoltz to pen, WHY? We have a great pen. TPM how many pitchers won 17 games in the National League last year? ZERO. RLPROFESSOINAL where do I start with you. Race has nothing to do with Chipper Smoltz and Andruw. Chipper can not be traded. He will veto any trade. He signed his contract shortly after his contract year. The Braves would happily sign Andruw back for 14 million but Andruw want 20 million a year. Just out of curiosity what race was Maddux and Glavine? I think they may of been white. Not quite sure though. RlProfessional I am so sick of hearing blacks blame everything on whites. As far as Im concerned blacks owe whites. We brought you to America. If it wasnt for our ancestors you would be in Africa and probably have aids. So I think you owe us a thank you!

By What the

April 27, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Chris….. I respectfully submit that you’re a nut!!!!

By Lonnie

April 27, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

Chris

You don’t have access to firearms do you?

By Mike Butler

April 27, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

Keep Smoltz as long as you can! The guy has character and is a great future HOFer. Get rid of Vick. He has no character or class. I won’t watch or attend Falcons games until he is gone. What a thug!

By Lonnie

April 27, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

Chris

You don’t have access to firearms do you?

By fan

April 27, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

It’s nice to see mgmt keeping some valuable players. I wish they’d show this kind of loyalty more often, and I hope they do with A. Jones at the end of this season.

By TennesseeBraveFan

April 27, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

Uh….Chris… this is a baseball blog, right? Did I stumble to the wrong site here?

By Amber

April 27, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

I’m so happy to see that we’re going to be keeping Smoltz around. He makes me proud to be a Braves fan. For a change, an excellent move by management!

By uhhh

April 27, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

I think Chris would have sided with the Facists in Germany had he lived during that time. And according to him, anyone who disagrees with anything he believes is a traitor! (sounds pretty facist to me)

Back to baseball:

Great deal for the Bravos. Definitely glad to see it. Hope Chipper, Andruwn, Frenchy, et al get to retire as Braves as well!

By Thrifty Joyce

April 27, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

Smoltz resigning will be a deal if he can stay healthy. If not, he should pay back any “sick” pay not reimbursed by insurance. How can he or someone like Hampton take all that money and not work? I like Smoltz a lot, and he does a lot of charity work, but I could not and would not think of taking so much money from my company without contributing to its success. We need to keep Andruw because he does hit, he will get better, and he saves many games with his glove.

By AdirondackDave

April 27, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Fine move on Smoltz coming on the heels of McCann signing. Looks like the budget freeze is over.

I’m equally turned on by prospects in the minors. Salty is pounding the hell out of the ball. Brandon Jones, Escobar, and others are doing well also.

Chris - your ranting doesn’t belong on a baseball site.

By Brown Eyed Girl

April 27, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

Chris,

??????

By Brown Eyed Girl

April 27, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

wont 2 no, Not to be disrespectful to you, but frankly, its none of our business what happened between the man and his wife. I think its great when a player can retire with the team he started with. Way to go JS!

By Bev

April 27, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Wonderful. Glad Smoltz will be with the Braves for a while. To stay with one franchise as long as he has says much for the organization. Too bad Glavine and Andruw Jones are no longer Braves.

By uhhh

April 27, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Oh yeah, Eric from MO…your last comments made you sound like an idiot too.

By Vonshawn

April 27, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Outstanding news. Smoltz is a true Braves and deserves to retire wearing only one uniform.

Andruw is also a true Brave, and should NOT play anywhere but in the ATL.

By wont 2 no

April 27, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

I find it interesting that the media hasn’t asked questions about Smoltz and his divorce. We knew all about Chipper and Hooters and illigitimate child. We knew all about Cox beating his wife. We knew Ron Gant’s late night shenanigans. We sort of know about Aybar. We sure know all about MIKE (aka)”THUG” VICK. Why hands off SMOLTZ? That’s all…..

By aziz

April 27, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

$14 million is close to the market value for Smoltz, but read the fine line. For 2009, it is a club option only if he stays healthy next year and the same applies in 2010. Also, he will make less in those two years than next year. So this was a great signing.

Whoever thinks Andrew’s signing will come next, neeeds to read into history of Scott boras (his agent). Braves will never deal with Scott Boras. I think they should lock up Francouver with the same deas as MCcann..

By The Murf

April 27, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Gotta work something out with Andruw next.

By chipdip

April 27, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

smoltz is the face of the franchise….awesome deal!!!!!!!!!!

By chris

April 27, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

I just want to say that I blog here occasionally and do want to be confused with this fascist nutcase who has the same name.

By Luv it

April 27, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

*Great deal! Now find a LF and Bring on Blanco are B Jones……..see you later A Jones. *

By Braves16

April 27, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

I love this deal that Smoltz gets to be a brave his entire career. Everyone is mentioning Frenchy, Jones C., and Jones A., but what about McCann. I’d love to see him stay around for awhile as well. I think he’s worth more to our team than Jeff is just because of the lack of good hitting catchers out there!!

By Gene

April 27, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is a real credit to baseball. I hope that he is a permanent resident of Atlanta.

By Ripme

April 27, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

By wont 2 no? Smoltz divorce is private because they don’t run their mouth to the press-the way it should me. You need to watch the Young and restless are the local news for up dates on MR VICK, what a Joke!

By 790 The Bone

April 27, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Dear Braves Fan and Roswell Ed…which John Smoltz are you watching when you refer to him as a class act?

He acts like a spoiled Little Leaguer when he’s on the mound.

A great pitcher but not an ounce of class when he’s between the lines.

By Braves Fan Trapped in Oregon

April 27, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

Finally, finally, finally…we have stepped up to keep a Braves Legend in Atlanta until the end. After Spahn, Aaron, Neikro, Murphy, Justice, Glavine, we have made it happen and a great will only be a Brave. Chipper is here to stay also. Hopefully this will start a new trend for McCann and Francoeur. Next target is Andruw…although he is doing a good job of driving down his own value. Then we lock up Jeffery and we are set.

By green tea

April 27, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Ummm Chris? I think I speak for everyone on this blog or who will read it when I say please go find your bottle of prozac in the cupboard and pop a few of those bad boys. Baseball is a sport, a game, it’s for entertainment. Take your redneck republican rant elsewhere…

By Braves Fan

April 27, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

The Bone You wouldn’t know Class if it hit you in the face.

By PABravefan

April 27, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Braves16 have you been in a cave for the last couple of weeks? McCann just got a long term deal for 6 or seven years!

By beachcomber

April 27, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Is Smoltz worth what we’re going to pay him the next (possibly) three years? No. Nor is Mussina worth what he’s getting. Or Glavine. Or Schilling. But it’s how the system works. We also had a great bargain with Smoltz for many years. At the end of a great career, no matter what the endeavor, you are rewarded - usually at an amount inconsistent with your productivity at that juncture. Wish we could have seen all of the Big 3 stay but happy that Smoltz - still a top of the rotation guy, will finish here.

By Ripme

April 27, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Green tea you don’t speak for me. Chris I fail to see what Smoltz has to do with the Liberal’s you were talking about. You tell me you would turn down 14 mills just because of CNN and Ted etc. Get a life. ( Maybe I should have said RADICAL instead of liberal) Go Braves.

By wont 2 no

April 27, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Ripme and Chris r lovers. Ole Rip musta got the fist last night.

By AdirondackDave

April 27, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Fine move on Smoltz coming on the heels of McCann signing. Looks like the budget freeze is over.

I’m equally turned on by prospects in the minors. Salty is pounding the hell out of the ball. Brandon Jones, Escobar, and others are doing well also.

Chris - your ranting doesn’t belong on a baseball site.

By green tea

April 27, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

Oh sorry there friend. I thought it was obvious I was speaking for the non-redneck republicans on here. I’ll clarify better next time.

For the pay cut Smoltz took to stay here a few years ago and not run to NY like Glavine it is a show of good faith from JS for loyalty. Something that isn’t practiced too widely in MLB anymore.

By Ripme

April 27, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

wont 2 no…Now we know your mental deficiency.

By Cleanuphitter16

April 27, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

I don’t believe Smoltz acts like a spoiled child on the mound, I think he is intensely competitive, knows the strike zone, and when he gets frusterated with an Ump for a call and makes a gesture or something, its just his natural competitive reaction to a bad call.

I’d rather see that kind of passion than the indifference I saw from Chipper all of last season when he just seemed to be playing out a contract, not caring one bit about winning. Strikeout? No emotion. Groundball? Jogging to first. Dugout shot? Just a blank, bored stare. I’m thrilled to see he’s not playing that way this season and seems energized again just like the whole team seems to be.

Go Braves!

By Joe

April 27, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Great move. It wouldn’t be the Braves without Smoltz.

By Kim

April 27, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

I am happy for the Braves… Great job in signing Smoltz and McCann to longer deals. We will still have Chipper. Now we really need to worry about is signing Andruw and Francoeur! That would be the perfect and ideal thing to do.

By porksword

April 27, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Love this move on the part of the organization. Restores a little faith that there may actually be a modicum of humanity in pro sports.

Love to [keep] having you around Smoltzy. Oh, and way up there at the top…Smoltz throwing a tantrum? Please. He’s a competitor. I’ll never forget the anguish on his face when he was pitching against Chicago in the playoffs a couple of years back. Bloody sock my a*. Smoltz was in pain, but his drive and desire can NEVER be questioned. Again. Love this.

By MP

April 27, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Somebody was listening when Jim Palmer was talking.

By Ed Glennon

April 27, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

I think it is great that the Braves gave Smoltz a big contract. He deserves it. He is the face of the Braves and a great guy. Sometimes a player should get big money for more than baseball ability. I don’t care what he does the next three years. He deserves the money.

By Tech is the bombdiggaddy

April 27, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

Kudos to the Braves and smoltz for this deal! If only we coulda done the same with Glavine.

By JACK

April 27, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

All I can say about this scrwe-up is that the braves might as well treat Smoltz just like Roger Clemmins JUST PAY HIM TO PITCH 10-12 GAMES a YEAR NO SPRING TRANING MAYBEE NOT PITCH UNTIL THE END OF MAY, IF I WAS ONE OF THE YOUNG PITCHER;S IN THE BRAVES MINOR LEAGUE SYSTEM I WOULD GET OUT OF THE BRAVES SYSTEM JUST AS FAST AS I COULD they will be old and used up by the time the braves even bother giving them a chance? JUST AS SOON AS JS. CAN GET HIS SON A MAJOR LEAGUE CONTRACT WITH THE BRAVES, WATCH JUST HOW FAST HE GETS HIS A$$ OUT OF ATLANTA. REAL BAD MOVE.

By MAM

April 27, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

When I heard the news I was angry; I am still angry.

Schuerholz decided to give a 40 (almost) year old pitcher with a tiring arm a $14M guaranteed contract for next year and options for 2009 and 2010.

This crushes any hope that a 30 year old named Andruw Jones - the best centerfielder in all of baseball - will be with another team next year…

I think this is the dumbest thing Schuerholz has done yet. Keep the fan favorite and let the best player go. Says a lot for the Braves future, doesn’t it…

Didn’t learn your lesson with Hampton, did you??

Guess what? It won’t be the Braves without Andruw…

By cdog

April 29, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

the braves are a fine team this year and Smoltz is one of their better pichers so this will be great for the team