This will probably make Coach Joe Barton’s day.

Former Atlanta Braves pitcher, John Smoltz, is rumored to be gearing up for a Congressional campaign. Smoltz is on the short list of candidates who may run for the House seat John Linder is vacating.

Atlanta Journal-Constitution: John Smoltz, United States Congressman?

This would definitely give the Republicans a much needed edge in the Annual Roll Call Congressional Baseball Game.

After losing eight straight years, the Democrats beat the Republicans 15 – 10 last year. Some were already calling it the beginning of a Congressional baseball dynasty.The addition of John Smoltz to the Republicans team could help put that dynasty on ice.

But not all former professional athletes have been successful in making the transition to the inside-the-beltway battle. Former University of Tennessee and Washington Redsksins QB, Heath Shuler, has struggled on the baseball diamond:

Roll Call (June 22, 2009):

Doyle spoke about Shuler’s obviously disappointing performance at the plate again this year. A former NFL quarterback, Shuler extended his lackluster performance in 2009, failing to get a hit in three at bats. His manager suggested the former Washington Redskin needs to work on his fundamentals before swinging for the fences.

Ouch.

Does the Braves ace still have it? Can we draft him in our fantasy baseball team? Fantasy Congress? Will he brush back Anthony Weiner? Will the price of his 1989 Upper Deck Rookie Card skyrocket?

Only time will tell …

We wish Mr. Smoltz all the best down in Georgia and hope to see him at Nationals Park soon.