The Big Three: Now and Then

NEW YORK CITY, New York (Strike3Forums.com) -- On December 9th, 1992, the Atlanta Braves signed former Cubs pitcher and Cy Young winner Greg Maddux, assembling the most effective starter trio of all time. Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz combined for 453 wins and 65 saves (All for Smoltz) between 1993 and 2002, when Glavine departed for the Mets. Arguably the best 10 year stretch for any starting rotation, they were joined along the way by the promising Steve Avery, whose career was cut short by injury, Jason Schmidt, Denny Neagle (who won 20 games in 1997) and Kevin Millwood. However, it was clear to everyone even remotely interested in baseball that Maddux-Glavine-Smoltz were the core of the team and contributed heavily to the 14-year division winning streak that ended last season.

Almost 15 years later, it is interesting to try and predict the kind of seasons which each of the original Big Three members have. Let's start with the final remaining Brave, John Smoltz.




After a healthy 2006 campaign, Smoltz will hopefully fight off the injury bug which has plagued him throughout his career. A vastly-improved bullpen will contribute heavily to his win totals, but I have a feeling that he will not be able to avoid a trip to the disabled list.


Prediction: 17-5 in 31 games started, 3.94 ERA, 150 Ks.



Joining the Padres in the offseason on a 1 year deal worth $10 million dollars and a player option for 2008, Maddux will surely benefit from playing in Petco Park. Look for him to post similar totals to last season, although a hot start like last year's is not guaranteed.


Prediction: 18-11, 3.84 ERA, 103 Ks. Mad Dog makes every start.