Smotzy

First we loose Skip Carey, then Ernie Johnson and now John Smoltz.
Yesterday it was announced that John Smoltz had signed a one year contract with the Boston Red Sox, this after a 21 year partnership with the Atlanta Braves.
During that period the pitcher won 210 games and saved another 154.
The issue was money, last year Smoltz was paid $14,000,000.00, played in 6 games, missing most of the season with arm ailments that led to surgery. That amounts to over 2.3 million dollars per appearance. Nearing the end of his career, the Braves offered 3 million dollars guaranteed, the Red Sox offered 5.5 million dollars guaranteed.
There is much sadness around Atlanta, and I am sure that includes the Smoltz household. Chipper Jones was interviewed and suggested that the Braves had somehow disrespected John Smoltz, I am not so sure about that, BOTH parties made judgements based on their financial priorities. The Red Sox have more money offer and have made clear a willingness to use it. Also, 2.5 million dollars was the amount Smoltz accepted to ignore his personal feelings and abandon adoration from many long term fans. Since 1997 the Atlanta Braves have paid John Smoltz $52,833,667.00.
For my part, I have already said before, for the contributions and dedication that John Smoltz, Chipper Jones and Tom Glavine have shown the Atlanta Braves, team officials should have matched any offer to let them finish out their careers at home. Our home.
Good bye John, and thank you.