John Smoltz’s comeback lasted just one inning as the 41-year old right-hander elected to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery on Wednesday.  Smoltz has had four previous operations on his elbow, and this injury could finally be the one that pushes him towards retirement.

"I've pulled off a lot of miracles," said Smoltz. "I probably shouldn't have played this long. I'm looking forward to seeing if I can extend it."

Even if he has thrown his last pitch, Smoltz’s place in the Hall of Fame should be secure.  He is the only pitcher in baseball to have 200 wins and 150 saves, and has a postseason record beyond reproach.  His 15 playoff wins is more than other pitcher, and he also won the 1996 Cy Young award.  He is one of only 16 pitchers all-time to strike out at least 3,000 batters.  After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2000, Smoltz made the move to the bullpen the following year and became one of the best relievers in baseball closing out 154 games over a three year span including an NL-record 55 in 2002.  He then made another switch back to a starting role and went 44-24 over the past three seasons. 

Smoltz said he began to feel pain in his shoulder about a full year ago, and the pain never dissipated.  He even attempted a new arm angle during his rehab throwing from a three-quarter arm slot in order to relieve the discomfort, but it was not to be.  If he indeed retires, baseball has lost one of its greatest players of this generation. 

Rafael Soriano takes over the closer role having himself just returned from elbow tendonitis.  He should be fine, but will be a constant injury-risk as well.  Lefty Mike Gonzalez is also expected back sometime this month and could share the ninth inning role with Soriano.

John Smoltz could be calling it a career.