Report: Several Teams Interested in Smoltz

Red Sox Nation seemed more than ready to say goodbye to John Smoltz earlier in the week, but with pitching running thin across the league, it appears some teams are hoping to say hello to the future Hall of Famer.

A number of National League teams, along with the Texas Rangers, are reportedly interested in acquiring Smoltz, ESPN.com reports.

Smoltz was designated for assignment on Friday after picking up his fifth loss in eight starts on Thursday night.

Teams interested in Smoltz could acquire him either by trade or by waiting to see if the Red Sox give him his release. The Red Sox have to make that decision by Aug. 17.

The Red Sox, however, are reportedly hoping Smoltz accepts a rehab assignment and agrees to restructure his deal, which pays him $35,000 every day he is on the major league roster.