Many modern fans don’t realize just how devastating and unknown the recovery from Tommy John surgery once was, even within the last 25 years. For Atlanta Braves star John Smoltz, it gave him a chance to star on the mound in a whole new way.
Before the surgery
Smoltz had established himself as a starter quickly in his career with the Atlanta Braves, making an All-Star game his first full season in the major leagues. He put himself firmly in the hearts of Braves fans with his epic performance in October 1991 and then continued to be a postseason top performer for the team.