In denial over Smoltzie?
I'd rather not consider the possibility that Number 29 has thrown his last pitch, though lately I find myself preparing for the inevitable. I guess I'm subconsciously following the five stages outlined in the Kubler-Ross model, as evidence mounts that Smoltzie has, at long last, given everything he can.
Still, the denial persists. Sure, he's 41 and his shoulder throbs every time he throws, but it's Smoltz we're talking about. He'll get past it. The anger stage isn't quite as applicable, though I'll be pissed if Smoltz's career is cut short by injury. He deserves to walk off the mound on his own terms.
I'm willing to make that bargain with the baseball gods -- one more summer is all I ask. I'd even be willing to give Chris Woodward a roster spot, if that's what it took. Looked like we had a deal; instead, the depression stage may be at hand:
"It could be anywhere between the [late May] timetable I discussed and a lot longer," said Smoltz, 41, who reported discomfort following his Thursday and Saturday bullpen sessions. He said he doesn't know yet whether he can pitch in games until the situation improves — or when it will improve. ...
"If, physically, I could make the adjustments, I'll be out there," he said, referring to changes in delivery or arm angle to allow him to pitch effectively without exacerbating the inflammation in his shoulder.
"If I can't make adjustments, no medicine or treatment is going to allow me to do it. I've still got time."
I get the feeling the depression stage will linger long after the inevitable becomes official.
We could use the insight of an Orioles fan here, because Smoltz is to Atlanta what Cal Ripken Jr. was to Baltimore. When you consider he played alongside everyone from Murphy to Maddux, with Chipper and Glavine, it's all the more impressive that Smoltzie is this organization's unquestioned heart and soul. He'll be missed more than any of his teammates -- even more than Bobby.
I'm glad I don't have to accept anything yet, because that final stage will be a struggle. No doubt I'll have plenty of company.
--CB

















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