Smoltz To Sign With Cards

Which is why he's moved from the Braves (red as an accent color) to the Red Sox, and now "is strongly leaning toward the Cardinals", rather than the Dodgers (who have very limited red on their uniforms). John Smoltz is "strongly leaning" toward signing with the St. Louis Cardinals, two major league sources with direct knowledge of his negotiations told ESPN.com Tuesday night. Smoltz has told friends he will decide on a team Wednesday, once his release waivers expire and he officially becomes a free agent. However, all indications were that he will choose the Cardinals over a group of pursuers that includes the Los Angeles Dodgers, Florida Marlins and Texas Rangers. The Cardinals would like Smoltz to pitch out of the bullpen as a set-up man for closer Ryan Franklin. And while Smoltz has told clubs he would prefer to start, he has apparently decided St. Louis is the best fit. However, it's possible Smoltz will not immediately return to the bullpen. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch, citing ...