Smoltz Gets 3000 K’s, Braves Fall

Written by Colin on April 22, 2008 – 11:15 pm

Tonight was a special night for John Smoltz (3-1), who unfortunately got the loss after striking out 10 in seven innings of one-run ball.  In the third, he struck out the 3000th batter of his career, joining only 15 other pitchers in baseball.  Smoltz’s stuff looked good all night - his nasty slider and shoulder intact through all seven innings.

Unfortunately, the bats were non-existent tonight when it mattered.  Braves hitters combined to leave 12 batters on base, and Smoltz got pinned with the loss - even though he only gave up one of the six runs.  There were opportunities - but nobody could convert.  At least it wasn’t a one-run loss.  Going into the ninth, it was 1-0 Nationals.  But Jorge Campillo and Chris Resop combined to give up five runs (only one earned) in the top of the ninth.

Great to see Smoltz get 3000 strikeouts - he deserved the win tonight but didn’t get it.  Chipper’s 13 game hitting streak came to an end as did the five game winning streak.  We’ll try and start another one tomorrow against the Marlins as they come into town.  Overall, I’ll take 1-2 from the Nats.  We’re heading in the right direction as a team.

And Mr. Smoltz, congratulations.  Quite an accomplishment that I’m glad I was on hand to see.

Tags: John Smoltz, Washington Nationals
Posted in Game Analysis |