Brief setback for Smoltz

May 27, 2008 · Paul Raymond · Jump to comments

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Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz has experienced another setback in his return from a shoulder injury. Smoltz was all set to accompany the team on their current road trip, but was left behind in Atlanta due to flu-like symptoms. Because of the sickness the team will obviously leave him behind for a couple days to get better. He’ll now most likely make another rehab appearance for Single-A Rome around mid-week.

In addition to Smoltz, the Braves bullpen is about to get a big boost. Rafael Soriano is still experiencing some slight discomfort in his elbow but should return at some point this week. He’ll throw another side session with the team while in Milwaukee, and if everything goes well he’ll be activated.

Another player who could return by the end of June is lefty Mike Gonzalez. Gonzalez is still rehabbing his surgically repaired elbow. He’s scheduled for a doctor’s visit today, and if all goes well he could begin a minor-league rehab assignment. Being a relief pitcher the team expects him to only spend a week to two weeks down on the farm. He will most likely make his appearance in Double-A or Triple-A.

So things are looking up for the Atlanta Braves bullpen, which is a big plus, as they are in a dogfight in the National League East. The Braves are currently tied with the Philadelphia Phillies in second place, 2.5 games behind leader Florida Marlins. They’re also 1.5 games behind the St Louis Cardinals for the wild card. With most of their starters only able to go about 5 or 6 innings, having this many quality arms in the bullpen will only help the team in their fight.

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