John Smoltz is a former professional baseball player known for his time as a pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB). He played primarily for the Atlanta Braves from 1988 to 2009 and is recognized for his versatility, excelling as both a starting pitcher and a closer. Smoltz was a key member of the Braves' pitching staff during their successful run in the 1990s and early 2000s. Throughout his career, Smoltz was selected to eight All-Star games and won the Cy Young Award in 1996. He is also known for his impressive postseason performances, helping the Braves win the 1995 World Series. After retiring, Smoltz became a sports commentator and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015.