John Smoltz Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

John Smoltz cares little for critics who never played the game

By Adam Gretz | Last updated 4/13/23

John Smoltz had a Hall of Fame career as a pitcher, but there is a significant population of baseball fans who do not view him as a Hall of Fame broadcaster.

Smoltz does not waste much time thinking about those critics.

The former All-Star made an appearance on Jomboy' Media's Talkin' Baseball podcast this week and addressed the criticism he receives as an announcer on Fox Sports national broadcasts.

John Smoltz responds to critics:

“I don’t have any Twitter because it’s a waste of time. Those people who claim that they have a lot of answers or know things, they’ve never played the game.” pic.twitter.com/fzRMl85HBS
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) April 12, 2023

Setting aside the tired cliche of "never playing the game," it is understandable that Smoltz would be defensive about the criticism lobbed in his direction. Especially when directly asked about it. The seeming bulk of that criticism is not necessarily directed at his knowledge of the game or his experiences as a player, though.

It is largely centered around the fact he seems to hate the modern day game and always seems to be, for lack of a better word, grouchy about it. When an announcer enjoys what they are doing and enjoys the game that can completely change the tone of the broadcast. Smoltz does not always seem to offer that magical touch. No amount of knowledge or stories can change that.

The sour, get-off-my-lawn attitude can turn off fans who are interested in watching the game with today's stars and a more modern context.

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