ATLANTA - Atlanta closer John Smoltz is expected to throw off the mound Friday for the first time in nearly two weeks. He's been on the disabled list since Aug. 27 with tendinitis in his right elbow.
Smoltz didn't travel with the team on its just-completed six-game road trip, staying behind to rehab the injury without distraction. He's been working out daily, and if he completes his bullpen session Friday without much pain, he could be activated in time for the final week of the season.
When the Braves put him on the DL, they stressed his injury wasn't serious. Smoltz had reconstructive surgery on his right elbow in 2000, performed by orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews. It's the third time since he returned from surgery that he's gone on the DL with tendinitis, but the first time since 2001.
Smoltz has 44 saves and an ERA of 0.89. Before the injury, he was on pace to break the major league record 57 saves, set by Bobby Thigpen in 1990. Last year, Smoltz set the NL record with 55 saves.
Smoltz is 0-2 in 58 games, covering 61 innings.
Sunday
March 16th, 2025
12:28PM
