John Smoltz needs four strikeouts to reach 3,000! [Forum Archive]

Quote:

By CARROLL ROGERS
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 04/21/08
When John Smoltz takes the mound Tuesday against the Nationals needing four strikeouts to reach 3,000, one scout in the Turner Field stands will become a fan.

Former Braves catcher Bruce Benedict, who's in town scouting for the St. Louis Cardinals, was behind the plate when Smoltz collected his first strikeout vs. the Mets on July 23, 1988. He'd like to be a couple feet behind the plate in the stands when Smoltz gets No. 3,000.

"I remember after the game, John wanted everything that I had used in the game — my glove, my shoes — to commemorate his first major league win," Benedict said. "I remember him like he is now, full of energy, full of life, could have pitched a couple games that day I think."

It's easy for Benedict to recognize Smoltz's talent now now, but he said he said the same thing after Smoltz's debut that Sunday in Shea Stadium.