Earlier today The Morning Shift had Hall of Fame pitcher, former Atlanta Brave, and now lead MLB Analyst for Fox Sports John Smoltz on the show, and they asked John what he’s seen from Braves starting pitcher Bryce Elder this season that’s allowed Elder to have a successful season so far and possibly turn his career around. Smoltz responded by explaining why he thinks Elder’s success this season is all about opportunity and comfort.
“Bryce Elder now in my opinion knows he’s getting the ball every five days, he knows he doesn’t have to look over his shoulder, and he knows he doesn’t have to pitch perfect and your seeing the byproduct of that, and this could be the defining year for him to change the narrative of what people look at when they see a guy who doesn’t light up the radar gun.” Smoltz said
After seeking guidance from another Hall of Fame pitcher and former Brave, Greg Maddux, this offseason Elder has seemed more confident in his stuff and in his approach, and to Smoltz’s point, Bryce knowing he has the backing of the entire Braves organization is helping fuel his success as well, and if he can stay on the track he’s been on so far this season he’ll likely get his second career All-Star nod.
