John Schuerholz, the Braves’ "homeboy upstairs," came through with a contract extension for ace pitcher John Smoltz today. A March report questioned whether Smoltz would remain a Brave, and the pitcher publicly considered moving on from the Braves last August. But now he’ll finish his career with Atlanta, which just feels right.
Basically Smoltz is guaranteed a fair-market $14MM next year, with additional options based on innings pitched. He said in the past he wouldn’t sign any more team-friendly deals, but this one does lean towards the Braves. They’re only obligated to him if he stays healthy and makes 30+ starts. He probably could’ve gotten two years guaranteed on the open market despite his age.
Smoltz seems a lock for the Hall of Fame, as he’ll have 200+ wins and 154 saves to his name.
There’s one less free agent starter to be had; check out the updated list here.
