Will the Detroit Tigers trade for John Smolts of the Atlanta Braves to anchor their pitching staff?

Answer 1

It is very possible, and, if they did, would be very ironic. Back in 1987, the Tigers traded away a young minor league pitching prospect to the Atlanta Braves, in order to obtain Doyle Alexander for their pennant run. Alexander went 12-3 for them that year, and they would not have won the American League East (the division they were in before the MLB went to the three division format for each league) and pitched for them one more season before he retired. Who was this young prospect the Tigers gave up their future for their pennant run? None other then John Smolts himself.

Smolts has Michigan ties (he's a MSU graduated who is from East Lansing) and he and Dennis Eckersely are the only two pitchers in the history of baseball to have won and saved more then 200 games. Where Smolts amazes me the most is he went from the starting rotation, to the bullpen, and then back to the starting rotation with the Braves though his career. Eckersley stayed a bullpen closer once he left the starting rotation. I think this is the main reason why the Tigers should make a serious bid to pick him up. They can make him their fifth starter, or, in a pinch, have him come out of the pen. With they being in a heated neck and neck race with the White Sox having a reliable pitcher who could go either way could be the final piece of the puzzle that would make them the AL Central champs.

Answer 2

I heard recently that Smoltz said he was willing to leave Atlanta if that's what they felt was necessary to better the team. I haven't heard what their stance on the situation is, but I would think they would listen to offers. After all, they were willing to let Maddux and Glavine go. Will Smoltz be the last of the big 3 to depart?

If Detroit gets in the mix, what do they have to offer the Braves in return? If I were Detroit, I don't know if I'd mess with the chemistry that they have right now. I read today that Maroth is throwing rehab, so he should be back soon.

Answer 3

As much they try, the Tigers won't be getting Smoltz. The Braves have absolutely no reason to trade him. The Braves are going to pick up his $8M option for next season. Compared to recent free agent deals and the state of pitching that's a bargain. The Braves rotation with Mike Hampton back is going to be back to mid-90s form next season.

Though Smoltz said he was open to a trade, he went on to rephrase those statements the next day.

Answer 4

I `I sure hope he won't be traded.He is the best pitcher the Braves have.He don't lose the games the relievers do it He pitched all 9 not long ago and won.He is the ICON of the Braves I think he will stay right where he is.

Answer 5

He would be a great addition to their staff either as a starter OR as a relief pitcher. Yes, I think they will go after him, but the question is, will the Braves trade him?

I think not.

Answer 6

NO!

That is pure nonsense, and if you believe that rumor I have some land in southern FL I'd love to sell you.

The Tigers are fine with what they have.

If anything, They will be looking at getting a left handed power hitter....we sorely need a left handed bat in our line-up.

Answer 7

They don't NEED an anchor, not with Bonderman, Robertson, Rogers and (when he's healthy again) Maroth as starters and Zumaya, Rodney, Jones and company in the pen.

Answer 8

I doubt it. The Tigers really don't have anything to offer except maybe some money or a couple of prospects.

Answer 9

Well, if history is any indicator, Detroit will not do anything of the sort.

Answer 10

I hope not.

The Tigers are ruining my baseball season as it is.

Go ChiSox!