Smoltz's Dismal Debut

John Smoltz's recent debut with the Boston Red Sox was "schmutz."

Earlier today, the 42-year-old hurler struggled against the Washington Nationals. In only five innings of work, Smoltz surrendered five runs propelling his ERA to 9.00. Hopefully, his despicable performance is not a harbinger of his tenure with the Red Sox.

The former-Cy Young winner inked a $5.5-million agreement with the Boston Red Sox during the off-season. Supposedly, the contract outlined over $5-million in health-based bonuses. The eminent organization hoped that the financial perquisities included would urge the pitcher to return from his shoulder-surgery as soon as possible.

But, evidently, Smoltz may have returned a bit too soon.

Mets Slash Ticket Prices

The New York Mets have slashed some of their ticket prices. According to an article published in The New York Times, "select tickets for the three games against the Tampa Bay Rays are going for half off." In addition, fans will be able to purchase tickets for the Mets' upcoming series with the St. Louis Cardinals at a fraction of the list price.

Is it because of the current state of economic turmoil?

Perhaps. No Major League Baseball organization is immune to the ravages of the dismal economy. Everybody is attempting to tighten his or her belt, and thus may not be splurging on expensive seats this season.

Is it because of the Mets' 34-32 record thus far in the 2009 regular season?

Perhaps. But, normally, a Major League Baseball team would discount its games against weaker teams. Evidently, the Mets are not following traditional marketing strategies. Both the Tampa Bay Rays and the St. Louis Cardinals rank in the upper crust of Sports Illustrated's current MLB Power Rankings.

Is it to improve the Mets' current attendance record?

No. The New York Mets have sold 94% of their seats at CitiField this year. In addition, they currently have the 7th-best attendance record in Major League Baseball. Although the CitiField's field-level section has become a ghost town, the popular team does not need to reduce ticket prices to attract zealous fans to its new stadium.

(Photo Credits: MMar12 of PhotoBucket.Com)

End of the Week Briefings

• During the Gillette Civil Rights Game Weekend, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center will host a roundtable discussion concerning "Baseball and the Civil Rights Movement." Harvard Law professor Charles Ogletree, Tony Perez, Oscar Robertson, Harold Reynolds, and many others will share their thoughts on the fascinating topic.
• According to an article in The Deal, Jack Connors has expressed interest in purchasing the New York Times' "17.5% stake" in the Boston Red Sox. Previously, the marketing executive placed a bid to buy the Boston Globe. However, as of now, the affluent individual has not announced any official plans to purchase a portion of the baseball franchise.
• Jose Canseco plans to sue Major League Baseball and MLBPA for defamation. Since revealing his steroid use and abuse in 2005, Canseco claims that he has been unable to advance his career and has "lost wages." Ultimately, a judge will decide whether or not the former athlete has a valid case.