Fragmentsofme
11-05-2003, 05:26 PM
http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/atl/news/atl_news.jsp?ymd=20031105&content_id=599462&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl
ATLANTA -- It's becoming obvious John Smoltz's peers around the league respect him for much more than the mound dominance he has displayed throughout his career.
For the second consecutive year, Smoltz was named the Marvin Miller Man of the Year, an award which recognizes him for his on-field performance and the contributions to his community that inspire others to higher levels of achievement.
The award, which is named in honor of the Major League Baseball Players Assn.'s first executive director, comes in conjunction with the Players Choice Awards that were announced Wednesday. Balloting among Major League players was conducted in September.
Smoltz was the only Brave to receive a Players Choice Award this year. Javy Lopez was among the three finalists for the NL Comeback Player of the Year Award, which was won by the Padres' Rod Beck. Gary Sheffield finished second to the Cardinals' Albert Pujols for the NL's Outstanding Player Award. For many years, Smoltz has taken a great interest in Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. While visiting terminally ill children isn't always easy, the long-time Braves hurler has always realized his presence can bring joy to a family that has been saddled with grief.
In addition, Smoltz has regularly worked with the Atlanta Food Bank in its fight against hunger.
But Smoltz's contributions to the community extend beyond the sick and poor.
"He just accommodates people," veteran right-handed reliever Darren Holmes said. "That's pretty unique. There are times we've been out to eat and people are asking for his autograph. I've thought, 'Geez, tell them to leave you alone.' But he never does. It's really amazing. I've never seen him turn anyone down."
Smoltz's latest venture is overseeing the development of Kings Ridge Christian School, a non-denominational place of learning for the youth of Atlanta. He says he devotes much of his time to this new educational institution in hopes that children are given a chance to learn about God and at the same time receive a strong education.
It is not uncommon during a homestand for Smoltz to devote close to 20 hours to seeing that this school will be successful. He has remained steadfast in his commitment.
"That's the great thing about John," Holmes said. "He doesn't quit when he's trying to help others out. You know about everything he does is successful and he always gives you everything he has."
Mark Bowman is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
ATLANTA -- It's becoming obvious John Smoltz's peers around the league respect him for much more than the mound dominance he has displayed throughout his career.
For the second consecutive year, Smoltz was named the Marvin Miller Man of the Year, an award which recognizes him for his on-field performance and the contributions to his community that inspire others to higher levels of achievement.
The award, which is named in honor of the Major League Baseball Players Assn.'s first executive director, comes in conjunction with the Players Choice Awards that were announced Wednesday. Balloting among Major League players was conducted in September.
Smoltz was the only Brave to receive a Players Choice Award this year. Javy Lopez was among the three finalists for the NL Comeback Player of the Year Award, which was won by the Padres' Rod Beck. Gary Sheffield finished second to the Cardinals' Albert Pujols for the NL's Outstanding Player Award. For many years, Smoltz has taken a great interest in Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. While visiting terminally ill children isn't always easy, the long-time Braves hurler has always realized his presence can bring joy to a family that has been saddled with grief.
In addition, Smoltz has regularly worked with the Atlanta Food Bank in its fight against hunger.
But Smoltz's contributions to the community extend beyond the sick and poor.
"He just accommodates people," veteran right-handed reliever Darren Holmes said. "That's pretty unique. There are times we've been out to eat and people are asking for his autograph. I've thought, 'Geez, tell them to leave you alone.' But he never does. It's really amazing. I've never seen him turn anyone down."
Smoltz's latest venture is overseeing the development of Kings Ridge Christian School, a non-denominational place of learning for the youth of Atlanta. He says he devotes much of his time to this new educational institution in hopes that children are given a chance to learn about God and at the same time receive a strong education.
It is not uncommon during a homestand for Smoltz to devote close to 20 hours to seeing that this school will be successful. He has remained steadfast in his commitment.
"That's the great thing about John," Holmes said. "He doesn't quit when he's trying to help others out. You know about everything he does is successful and he always gives you everything he has."
Mark Bowman is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.