-Dexter-Sports
1:10 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

John Smotlz hoped to be back for good after a stint on the DL. Looking to close out games for the Braves after his stint, Smotlz will now be closing in on season ending surgery on his shoulder. Though it seems this could be the end of the road for Smoltz, he announced in a press conference that he plans on coming back for next season.

The Braves are now in a tough position to either find a starter that will be able to fill his void, or most likely they will look for bullpen help through a good amount of options. Bobby Cox is not afraid to give a veteran another chance, and we could see that. If Rafael Soriano doesn't work out for the rest of the season, he could plug in a veteran in or go after a middle reliever with closer stuff. Let's take a look at some options.

• One option would be to sign a veteran reliever that has had pass successes closing out games. Antonio Alfonseca, Rodrigo Lopez, and Jose Mesa could all be options at the reliever position. Throw in Russ Ortiz, David Wells, Eric Milton and Freddy Garcia in the mix if the Braves are targeting starters.

• Trade could be a very good option for the Braves. A couple of teams that fit right off the head are the Brewers, with Derrick Turnbow, the Tigers with recently designated Fransisco Cruceta, and possibly the Rockies with either Brian Fuentes or Manny Corpas. I also like the thought of bringing in Anthony Reyes of the Cardinals. The Braves have a lot of depth in the Outfield prospects, and could use either Gregor Blanco, Justin Schafer, Justin Heward or Gorkys Hernandez.