Smoltz won't run for Linder's seat

Former Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz says he has no interest in running for retiring Rep. John Linder's (R-Ga.) seat.

In a text-message exchange with an Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter, Smoltz said he will not get involved politics:

Me: jim galloway w ajc politics here. Could u call re ur interest in linder seat? Thx.

Smoltz: I do not know what you are talking about I am not in any way involved in anything regarding politics sorry.

Me: [Certain Washington source] says u would make gud candidate to replace john linder who has announced retirement. Interested?

Smoltz: Sorry I am not.

The seat is expected to garner plenty of Republicans, including potentially former Christian Coalition head Ralph Reed, Gwinnett County Sheriff Butch Conway, state Sen. Don Balfour, state Sen. David Shafer, state Rep. Tom Rice and state Rep. Clay Cox.