R. I. P, 4 cherished Atlanta braves players including John Smoltz died in a fatal car crash during their journey to.. died in a fatal car crash during their journey to..

John Smoltz, born May 15, 1967, in Warren, Michigan, is a retired Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher renowned for his exceptional career with the Atlanta Braves. Smoltz attended Waverly High School and was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in 1985 but chose to attend college. He played college baseball at the University of Michigan before being selected by the Braves in the 1985 MLB Draft.

Smoltz made his MLB debut with the Braves on July 23, 1988. Over his 21-year career, he became known for his versatility, successfully transitioning from a starting pitcher to a closer and then back to a starter. This adaptability contributed significantly to his success. He was a key member of the Braves’ pitching staff during the team’s dominance in the 1990s and early 2000s.

His career accomplishments include a Cy Young Award in 1996, 8 All-Star selections, and over 3,000 strikeouts. Smoltz is also notable for his postseason performances, ranking among the best in playoff history with 15 career postseason wins. His contributions were instrumental in leading the Braves to the 1995 World Series title.

After retiring from playing in 2009, Smoltz was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015. Post-retirement, he transitioned to a successful career as a sports broadcaster and analyst. Smoltz’s legacy is marked by his remarkable career longevity, his role in the Braves’ sustained success, and his impressive postseason performances.