A Good Question

Jeff Schultz asks a good question - why hasn't the Atlanta Braves excercised the option on John Smoltz?

I know that the Braves have until the end of the World Series to excercise the option but at just $8 million for 2007 that option is an absolute bargain. The only plausible explanation for not excercising a bargain option like that would be if a multi-year contract was being negotiated. However, if that was the case - wouldn't John Smoltz be aware of that fact? A more likely explanation is that the Braves will excercise the option but will wait till the last momment just in case Smoltz suffers a serious injury.

If I was John Smoltz - I'd be a little peeved and if the option is not excercised I would not be surprised to see Smoltz shuts himself down with a "bad back" or "hamstring" injury to avoid the possibility of an elbow or shoulder injury.