Smoltz Contemplating 2010 Return

Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch writes that John Smoltz would like to return to the Cardinals in 2010 if it's agreeable, and if he decides he still wants to pitch.

Smoltz states that while he's planning on returning right now, he'll need to begin his workouts in November and see how he feels before making a final decision. He expects to sign late again this offseason if he does indeed feel up to a return. The NLDS certainly has him considering it:

“Last night made me realize a lot of things. How much I missed it, for one. How nervous I got. … I wanted to go in there and pitch perfect and I almost did.”

Smoltz will turn 43 next season, but posted a respectable 4.26 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, and .248 opponent batting average in 38 innings for the Cards this year. He struck out 40 while walking just nine.

“I want to be sure,” Smoltz said. “You know all these guys retire and then come back. I don’t want to be one of those guys.”