A Tip of the Cap

One of MLB's greats and one of my favorite athletes reached a milestone last night. Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz broke the 3000 strikeout mark last night and now joins 16 others of baseball's elite. Smoltz ended the night with 3006 strikeouts. It was vintage Smoltz who went 7-strong, giving up only 1 run and punching out 10 batters. However, the Braves offense was non-existent and Smoltz was unable to cap off his stellar performance with a win.

Smoltz should be a certain Hall of Famer and he has the numbers to merit it.
210 wins
154 saves (the only pitcher in MLB to have 200 W/150 Sv)
3006 K
Cy Young (1996)
24 win season (1996)
6 15+ win season
NCLS MVP (1992)
NL Rolaids Relief Award (2002)
MLB Strikeout leader (1996)
Most Post-season wins (career)
Roberto Clemente Award for community service (2005)

And there are many more accomplishments in Smoltz' 19 year career.

I heard an interview with Braves Manager Bobby Cox, who noted that when Smoltz was acquire from the Detroit Tigers that Cox knew the young pitcher had God-given ability and a ton of potential, but he had no idea what an amazing athlete and a intelligent player/person Smoltz was [paraphrased]. It is that natural ability, smarts and his heart that have helped Smotlz to remain at the top of MLB's pitching ranks for so long.

John also supports and works with several charities. It is clear to see that John's Christian faith has helped to shape the man and player he is today.

A tip of the hat to Smoltz and to many more accolades.



Photo: AP Images/Gregory Smith