John Smoltz: Former All-Star baseball pitcher chases full-time PGA Tour Champions card

CNN
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MLB Hall of Famer John Smoltz is aiming to earn a spot on the PGA Tour Champions this week as he competes on the qualifying match in Arizona.

Smoltz, an eight-time All-Star who loved a 22-year baseball profession, is a part of the 78-man area vying for a top-five spot at TPC Scottsdale, which might see him win his first Champions Tour card.

But regardless of his sporting pedigree, the previous pitcher is aware of that he has an enormous job in entrance of him.

“I don’t live in a false reality,” mentioned Smoltz, in line with the PGA Tour. “This sport is really difficult. I’m not trying to think that this is something that I could do for a whole year or not … but it’s fun to attempt it.”

The 1995 World Series champion completed tied for 14th within the first stage of PGA Tour Champions Q-School in Valrico, Florida final month to achieve a spot on this week’s closing stage match.

Smoltz completed the week with a one-over 289, his finest efficiency in Champions Tour qualifying throughout 4 makes an attempt.

He has already performed in 9 Champions Tour occasions, and incomes a Tour card could be a notable achievement in his already spectacular sporting resume.

“To me, this has been an incredible journey, just to see where I can take my golf game,” mentioned the 56-year-old Smoltz, who performed for the Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and St. Louis Cardinals throughout his MLB profession.

“It helps me to become a better golfer. I just want to become a better golfer.”

Smoltz tees off at 10:52 a.m. native time (12:52 p.m. Eastern Time) at TPC Scottsdale on Tuesday as he begins his qualifying try throughout 72 holes.