When you talk about John Smoltz it’s hard not to think about whether or not he’s one of the most unfortunate souls in baseball. His talent over the years is undeniable — John Smoltz is an excellent pitcher. When the great pitchers of this generation are talked about, though, how often do you hear Smoltz’s name among Clemens (steroids notwithstanding), Pettitte (ditto), Santana, and Rivera? Overshadowed by these names, Smoltz has been for the Braves both a dominant starter and a strong force from the bullpen, but this last stint beyond the outfield fence might be his last.

The Braves are expected to bring Smoltz off the DL today; he’s been out since late April with a shoulder. He’s looked solid in rehab stints with Mississippi and Rome, but the 41-year old is obviously past the better part of his prime. Smoltz knows this — in a recent interview he was very open with his realization that age isn’t his friend — and seems willing to move back to relief for the first time since the 2004 postseason.

If you remember 2004 and Smoltz’s first go in the bullpen, you’ll remember that Smoltz had no desire to be there; he fought for a place back in the rotation. Since then, he’s for the most part proven his worth as a Braves’ starter, but his shoulder injury has allowed time to catch up to him. Smoltz isn’t out to reprove himself and his pitching ability, but he genuinely seems to be heading out there to best serve his team, once the team to beat in the NL East, and help the Braves become something to deal with among the ilk of the Mets and Phillies and Marlins.

So if Smoltz isn’t thought of now among today’s greats, will he be remembered as being from the same vein as Dennis Eckersley? A great pitcher willing to take a secondary role to benefit the team. I’ve always admired the Braves — you can’t deny the longevity they held in being the National League’s best in the ’90s. Of the Braves, I’ve always been a fan of Smoltz, and I can only hope that history is kind to him as he gets ready to wrap-up his career somewhere between the top of the fifth and the bottom of the eighth.

Tags: atlanta braves, John Smoltz, pitchers