posted May 19, 2008
) Photo by Tim Evearitt John Smoltz |
The veteran pitcher still hopes to come back from the disabled list by the end of the month, but Smoltz acknowledged Sunday that he could be out significantly longer.
Smoltz, 41, 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.
O'Brien notes that he has been on the disabled list for three weeks due to inflammation in the rotator cuff and severe inflammation in a biceps tendon in his right shoulder. Smoltz said a cortisone injection and two weeks of rest didn't completely alleviate the inflammation, and throwing makes it worse.
But Smoltz said there's no guarantee that complete rest for a longer period would knock out the inflammation. And since he can't afford to lose considerable arm strength if he hopes to pitch again this season, he is caught between trying to control the soreness and preparing for a return.
If and when he does come back, it will be in the bullpen instead of the starting rotation.
Smoltz doesn't believe he can pitch multiple innings at a time without the pain returning. He hopes he'll be able to give the Braves an inning at a time in a back-of-the-bullpen role.
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