Dominic Smith, a versatile first baseman known for his time in Major League Baseball, has signed a minor league contract with the Atlanta Braves for the 2024 season. He enters spring training as a non-roster invitee, aiming to secure a spot with the team and contribute to their roster moving forward.
Career Overview and Recent Performance
Smith, 30, was originally selected in the first round of the 2013 MLB Draft by the New York Mets. He spent his first six years in the majors with the Mets before joining several other organizations over the past three seasons, including the Washington Nationals, Boston Red Sox, Cincinnati Reds, and San Francisco Giants. In 2023, he appeared in 63 games for the Giants, registering a .284 batting average with five home runs, twelve doubles, and 33 RBIs.
In the shortened 2020 season affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith recorded a career-best .316 average, along with 10 home runs in just 50 games for New York. Across nine major league seasons and 756 games, his career batting average stands at .250, complemented by 69 home runs, 292 RBIs, 543 strikeouts, and 185 walks. Defensively, Smith has primarily played first base in 473 games but also spent time in left field for 182 contests, although he has not played there since 2021.
Potential Role and Outlook with the Braves
Joining the Braves as a seasoned player with experience across multiple teams, Smith brings depth and flexibility to Atlanta’s roster options. His ability to play first base and occasional outfield spells, combined with his past offensive contributions, offers the Braves potential value as they prepare for the 2024 season. His minor league contract and invite to spring training provide an opportunity for him to compete for a place in a strong lineup.
