10:47am: Smoltz is seeking at least $3MM, reports David Waldstein of the New York Times. Waldstein feels that the Mets' near-agreement with Hisanori Takahashi takes them out of the running for Smoltz.
9:58am: Free agent pitcher John Smoltz was noncommittal in his talk with Jeff Schultz of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. In reference to his next team, Smoltz replied, "Nothing is closed for me." He has nothing in the works and hasn't decided whether he'll wait until midseason to sign.
Understandably, Schultz gives extra play to the possibility of a Braves reunion. It'd be a nice way to go out, and Smoltz remains in contact with Braves manager Bobby Cox. Still, as far as opportunities go, the Braves appear set with their rotation and the back end of the bullpen.
Ten teams have expressed interest in Smoltz at various points this winter, according to reports: the Nationals, Mets, Phillies, Yankees, Cardinals, Dodgers, Mariners, Astros, Rangers, and Orioles.
Does anybody know how much Smoltz is looking for or what role he is looking for?
I guess about a month ago he said he is open to both starting and relieving. I don’t imagine that has changed.
Give it up Smoltz.
you do know that smoltz posted an ERA with the Cards better than half the NL?
I would be really surprised if he signs with an American League team, especially after how bad he got lit up in Boston. I think he would be best suited for the NL Central or NL West where the bats aren’t as lethal.
I wish he would come back to ATL. We could never have too many BP arms. The only problem is, we don’t have the money he would want… he proved last year that he wants the money.
Which begs the question, is he willing to take the league minimum to retire as a Brave? I believe he wasn’t looking for a starter role, so I’m sure the Braves can find room for a former great if he’s willing to take the bare minimum.
I think he wants to start, but at this point he might just take what he can get. Fact is, Braves don’t have room for him. If he wants to retire a Brave, he’d have to take a 1 mil contract, or less.
$1M or less and a middle relief role. Doubt he’d be interested when somebody will at least throw him an incentive heavy starting opportunity. I mean he would already be the third best guy in the Met’s rotation…
That’s why I said IF he wanted to come to ATL. I know he can get it elsewhere.
I was agreeing with you, not arguing with you. Group hug.
Yeah same here. Just realized as to how the caps could have been taken. We need smiley faces on here so that the moods aren’t confused.
I wish that Mets comment could be taken as a joke… but it’s probably true. But in all seriousness Smoltz needs to quit because the Mets are just dumb enough to sign him and we all know what happened to the last burnt out future hall of fame/former braves starter that pitched for the Mets.
Mariners should pick him up for 3 mil.
it wouldnt be bad if the dodgers picked him up preferably with an incentive-based deal. the team really needs a 5th starter and a veteran pitcher.
Jim Hendry just said on ESPN AM 1000 that he is still looking for a veteran right handed reliever. Smoltz fits that description.
Hendry also said they “are not going to sign any more position players.”
Why not Jim? Who’s leading off? Who’s playing 2nd base?
I know the Cubs are stuck with a boat load of awful contracts, but Felipe Lopez is on sale right now. A huge, gaping hole can be filled for cheap.
I wish Hendry would forget about yet another average reliever, address an obvious need, and make a move that will make a difference.
I would love to see Smoltz back with the Braves in a bullpen role. Sure, the $3 Mill price tag is a bit high but if prorated in June, it’s probably not that bad…especially given how old Saito and Wagner are.
If he’s still available, bringing him onboard from June 1 to the end of the season akes sense to me, too.
… makes sense …
At $3m he’s a nice pick-up. Can spot start if a pitcher goes down and provides around average relief value. Most teams should consider him at this price.
As a cub fan I would be an advocate for picking him up. He would be a good 4-5 guy in the rotation until lilly is back and healthy. Once lilly is back entice him with the possibility of being the setup guy. I would have no problem with him and guzman competing for that role. That type of competition only makes you better. Also, take into consideration the plethora of youth we have in terms of pen arms. This could be a great signing in many, many aspects.