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Augusta GreenJackets

John Smoltz to Pitch in Augusta Thursday

May 20, 2009 - South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Augusta GreenJackets News Release


Augusta, GA - Former Atlanta Braves ace and future Baseball Hall-of-Famer John Smoltz will make a rehabilitation start for the Greenville Drive in their game Thursday night at Lake Olmstead Stadium against the Augusta GreenJackets.

Smoltz, who signed a one-year deal over the winter with the Boston Red Sox, is attempting to return from off-season shoulder surgery to join the Red Sox starting rotation later this summer. He has not pitched in a major league game since last June.

Last year, Smoltz spent time on the disabled list with shoulder inflammation while still a member of the Braves and pitched in the South Atlantic League with the Rome Braves in a couple rehab appearances.

Smoltz is an eight-time All-Star, a National League Cy Young Award Winner and last April, he became the 16th member of the 3,000 strikeout club. He is the only pitcher to compile 200 wins and 150 saves in his career.

Though Smoltz may be the most decorated major leaguer to pitch at Lake Olmstead Stadium either for or against the GreenJackets, he certainly is not the first. David Justice, Ron Gant and Tom Gordon - among others - have suited up in Augusta while attempting to recover from injuries.

Tickets still remain for Thursday's game but are going very quickly. First pitch will come at 7:05 from Lake Olmstead Stadium. You may purchase seats to Thursday's game and every home game by calling 706-922-WINS or online at www.greenjacketsbaseball.com.

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