St. Louis Cardinals sign John Smoltz

No team has been more active heading towards a playoff run then the St. Louis Cardinals. While they have significantly improved their roster by adding stars like Matt Holliday, the Cardinals still have a need for a back of the rotation starter and a right handed set up reliever. By signing John Smoltz today they may have gotten both in swoop.

Smoltz who went to the Boston Red Soxafter more than two decades with the Atlanta Braves to try and win one more title before retirement. That move did not work out so well, and the Red Sox are on the verge of failing to make the playoffs. Smoltzwent 2-5 with an 8.33 ERA for the Red Sox in eight starts. So the Sox designated him for assignment and after clearingwaivers he was free to sign with any MLB club.

As it stands right now August 19th, 2009 the Cardinals have a six game lead on the Chicago Cubs for a division title. If Smoltz can help this club keep that lead then then this is a move that makes a lot of sense. It seems likely that Smoltzwill start as the fifth pitcher in the Cardinals rotation through the end of the regular season. It would not surprise anyone if Smoltz was then moved to the bullpen as a long reliever or as the 8th inning set up guy.

Either way it seems likely that Smoltz can help this team make a strong post season run.