New York Yankees fans may not be thrilled with the team’s latest offseason signing, but Jazz Chisholm Jr. is certainly excited about it. According to YES Network, the Yankees signed former Mets’ top prospect Dominic Smith to a minor league deal. While Smith’s signing might not spark much enthusiasm for a fanbase still disappointed over missing out on top free agents like Juan Soto and Roki Sasaki, Chisholm showed his support on social media. He shared a video of himself working out with Smith, who was smiling, on his Instagram stories. The video was later shared by SNY on X.com. Chisholm has previously referred to Smith as a “big brother” and mentioned that Smith was one of the players who mentored him when he was younger.
Smith, who played 93 games in the majors last season with the Reds and Red Sox, posted a .691 OPS. A former 11th overall pick in the 2013 draft, Smith did not meet the high expectations placed on him during his time with the Mets. Over six seasons in New York, Smith slashed .246/.308/.424 with a .733 OPS and hit 46 home runs in 447 games. He spent most of his career at first base, but once Pete Alonso joined the team, Smith was forced to play the outfield during his final seasons with the Mets. Although he never developed the power that was expected of him, Smith is still regarded as a solid defensive first baseman and a reliable hitter.
The Yankees are bringing in Smith as an affordable insurance option for an aging Paul Goldschmidt at first base, though Smith will face stiff competition for a spot on the major league roster. The Yankees already have left-handed hitting Ben Rice, and both DJ LeMahieu and Oswaldo Cabrera are capable of playing first base as well. However, Smith’s presence in spring training will provide a familiar face for Chisholm, who is entering his first Yankees spring training after being acquired from the Marlins at last season’s trade deadline.
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