John Smoltz Signs with the Cardinals

After getting released by the Boston Red Sox, it didn’t take John Smoltz too long to find a new home. On Wednesday, Smoltz signed a deal for the rest of the year to pitch for the St. Louis Cardinals. Since the Red Sox are still paying him money, the Cardinals will only have to pay Smoltz around $100K.

With the Cardinals, Smoltz will likely begin as a starting pitcher. However, down the line, he could switch to the bullpen. Many team insiders have speculated that if the team makes the playoffs, Smoltz would likely be the the Cardinals’ setup man.

As it stands, the Cardinals appear to have a good shot at making the 2009 postseason. They have a six game lead over the Chicago Cubs in the NL Central. The Milwaukee Brewers and Houston Astros are nine and ten games back, respectively.

Smoltz was released by the Red Sox after struggling as a starting pitcher. In eight starts, he had an ERA of 8.32 to go along with a record of 2-5.

During his possible Hall of Fame career, Smoltz has proven to be able to star both as a starter and in relief. The Cardinals will hope the 42-year-old can reclaim some of his past glory.