Tiger takes on Smoltz at plate


The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 03/06/08

Winter Haven, Fla.

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Two days after John Smoltz, Jeff Francoeur and Tom Glavine played 18 holes with PGA star Tiger Woods, Smoltz faced his pal again Wednesday — this time in the pitcher's domain.

Woods donned a batting helmet and Braves jersey (tucked into shorts) and stepped into the batter's box when Smoltz threw three simulated innings at Disney's Wide World of Sports.

According to Braves officials who were present, Woods struck out twice and drew a walk before getting a "controversial" single in his final at-bat.

"I've got the second baseman making that play," pitching coach Roger McDowell deadpanned.

McDowell stayed back to watch Smoltz in the 11 a.m. session, then drove over to Winter Haven to join the Braves for their Grapefruit League game against Cleveland.

Although Smoltz had fun facing Woods — "He really went after him," McDowell joked — he was otherwise serious in the second of the simulated-game sessions he is utilizing.

Smoltz devised the plan — the Braves signed off on it — to enable him to work on his off-speed pitches and sinker away from the competitive game environment.

He gave up a double Wednesday to Chipper Jones, who has missed four games after tweaking a hamstring and is expected back in the lineup Friday.

Francoeur and Tim Hudson also hit against Smoltz. There were no fielders or umpires, and no other details such as hits, strikeouts or walks were provided.

Smoltz plans to make two or three Grapefruit League starts beginning in mid-March.

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