Atlanta Braves, Spring Training, John Smoltz

MLB Baseball's Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz missed his scheduled start in their Spring Training game against the Indians today because of tightness in his shoulder. Smoltz, 40, has had four elbow surgeries. He missed the 2000 MLB Season. His history of elbow problems may hang as a dark cloud over him even though he has pitched three straight seasons with 200 or more innings since returning to the rotation in 2005.  Overall, he has had 10 seasons with at least 200 innings pitched.

Smoltz began Spring training working out in the back fields of the training complex which is usually reserved for the minor leaguers. Simulated situations were set up where he experimented with pitches out of the competitive atmosphere of spring training games. He has had one spring training start.

Bobby Cox, Atlanta Braves manager stated, "He wants to have a strong year...he wants us to win..I don't see a reason for pushing it right now."