Key facts
- John Smoltz is competing in the American Century Championship golf tournament.
- Smoltz credits his improved golf game to two new hips and other medical procedures.
- He has never won the American Century Championship, finishing second last year.
- The tournament uses a Modified Stableford scoring system, awarding points per hole.
- Smoltz notes his tendency to start tournaments slowly and aims for a better start.
- The event has raised over $8 million for charities, with American Century Investments donating profits to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research.
Baseball Hall of Famer John Smoltz, 59, discussed his golf game and upcoming participation in the American Century Championship. Smoltz stated his game is in its best place due to improved health, including two new hips and other procedures. He will compete in the tournament from July 10-12 at Edgewood Golf Course in Lake Tahoe. Last year, Smoltz finished second to NHL player Joe Pavelski. He highlighted the tournament's Modified Stableford scoring system, which rewards aggressive play and birdies, noting his tendency to start tournaments conservatively and make too many pars. Smoltz aims to start faster this year to maximize his chances of winning. He recalled playing in the event in 2000 after Tommy John surgery, with permission from his manager Bobby Cox, when it was played under stroke play rules. Smoltz described the American Century Championship as a highly anticipated event. The tournament has raised over $8 million for charities, with American Century Investments donating a portion of its profits to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research. The event will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock. Smoltz had a distinguished 21-season MLB career, primarily with the Atlanta Braves.