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John Smoltz

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description John Smoltz Overview

John Smoltz is a former American professional baseball pitcher who spent the majority of his 21-season MLB career with the Atlanta Braves. He is the only pitcher in MLB history to record at least 200 wins and 150 saves, having transitioned from starter to closer in 2001 following elbow surgery. Smoltz won the 1996 National League Cy Young Award and was an eight-time All-Star. He won the 1995 World Series with the Braves and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015.

help John Smoltz FAQ

How many wins and saves did John Smoltz have in his career?

John Smoltz is the only pitcher in MLB history to record both at least 200 wins and 150 saves, finishing his career with 213 wins and 154 saves. This dual achievement is considered virtually unrepeatable in modern baseball.

Did John Smoltz win a Cy Young Award?

Yes, Smoltz won the 1996 NL Cy Young Award after posting a 24–8 record with a 2.94 ERA for the Atlanta Braves. He led the National League in wins, strikeouts (276), and innings pitched that season.

Is John Smoltz in the Baseball Hall of Fame?

Yes, John Smoltz was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015 in his first year of eligibility. He was elected alongside former Braves teammates Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine, cementing their legacy as one of the greatest pitching rotations ever.

Why did John Smoltz move from starter to closer?

After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2000, Smoltz returned as a relief pitcher in 2001 to reduce strain on his arm. He became one of the most dominant closers in baseball, recording 154 saves between 2001 and 2004 before returning to the starting rotation.