The New York Yankees have signed former top prospect Dominic Smith to a minor-league contract, with an invitation to spring training, in an effort to compete for a roster spot.
According to YES Network’s Jack Curry, Smith was drafted 11th overall by the New York Mets in the 2013 MLB Draft. He was the Mets’ top prospect and enjoyed considerable success in the minors before making his MLB debut in August 2017. However, in six seasons with the Mets, Smith struggled, posting a .246/.308/.424 line with 46 home runs. After the Mets decided not to extend an offer to him in 2022, Smith signed with the Washington Nationals but was designated for assignment in the offseason.
In 2024, Smith signed a minor-league deal with the Chicago Cubs but didn’t make their roster out of spring training. He then joined the Tampa Bay Rays but failed to crack their roster as well. After opting out, he signed with the Boston Red Sox, playing 84 games before being released and joining the Cincinnati Reds. Over 93 MLB games in 2024, Smith hit .233 with 6 home runs and 34 RBIs. He now hopes to secure a spot with the Yankees in 2025, providing depth behind Paul Goldschmidt and as insurance in the outfield.
An MLB scout spoke to NJ.com’s Randy Miller about the Yankees’ signing, expressing optimism about Smith’s potential with New York. The scout praised Smith as a solid defensive player with a good bat who could provide depth at first base and in the corner outfield spots. Although Smith lacks big power and speed, the scout believes he could hit around .250 with some doubles and play good defense. The scout also emphasized that Smith’s veteran presence and hunger to succeed could be valuable for the Yankees.
Smith has played in 693 MLB games, hitting .246 with 64 home runs and 259 RBIs.
After the signing, Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. shared a workout video with Smith on social media, referring to him as his “big brother.” The two could become teammates if Smith makes the Yankees’ roster.
Spring training for the Yankees will begin on February 12, with pitchers and catchers reporting, and the full team reporting on February 17.
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