The Atlanta Braves are navigating a challenging spring training, with Jurickson Profar facing a 162-game suspension for testing positive for PEDs. However, amidst this setback, there's a silver lining: Dom Smith is turning heads with his impressive performance.
Smith, who was drafted 11th overall by the New York Mets in 2013, is making a compelling case for himself. Currently hitting .421 with a 1.132 OPS, he's showing the kind of form that could earn him regular at-bats this season. After a successful stint with the Giants, Smith has joined the Braves and is seizing the opportunity to shine.
Smith's journey has been an interesting one. Initially with the Mets, he was pushed to the outfield due to Pete Alonso's dominance at first base. Over six years, he's moved through various teams, including a minor-league stint with the Yankees, before landing in Atlanta.
The Braves have no plans for Smith at first base, thanks to Matt Olson's firm hold on the position. Olson, a powerhouse in his own right, belted 29 homers, drove in 95 RBIs, and snagged a Gold Glove last season. But with questions looming over the starting shortstop and key injuries to Sean Murphy and Ha-Seong Kim, the Braves are in dire need of offensive firepower.
Smith's versatility-whether in the outfield or as a designated hitter-offers Atlanta a much-needed boost. His spring training performance is a beacon of hope for fans, especially with the team determined to avoid last year's 0-7 start. If Smith can maintain his momentum, he might just be the catalyst the Braves need to propel themselves into playoff contention.