After a strong run at LSU, the Yankees drafted Smith in the second round of this year’s draft, signing him at slot.  His pro career is off to a hot start, slashing .394/.505/.592 with a ridiculous K:BB ratio of 6:18 over 21 games with Short-Season Staten Island.  I have seen Smith play multiple times throughout the summer.

Listed a 5-foot-10 and 172 pounds, Smith is not a physically imposing figure on the diamond.  He is solidly built, but isn’t particularly tall or broad, with limited room for physical projection. The 22-year-old is a well-rounded player who can do a little bit of everything, with the hit tool being his best trait. He displayed good feel for the barrel and strike zone plus his balanced, line drive approach is conducive to hitting to all fields.  The young infielder exhibits average power to the pull-side and seems to pick his spots for pitches to drive when ahead in the count.  Smith has above-average speed, which he gets the most out of due to his overall hustle and gritty style of play.  He played shortstop at LSU and in his pro debut, but profiles better at the keystone long term.  The arm and range are a bit light to stay at short as he progresses toward the big leagues, but can play on the left side of the infield in a pinch.

After spending multiple seasons playing for a top college program, Smith is clearly too advanced for Short-Season ball.  I do not see the ingredients for an above-average regular, mainly due to questions about his power potential.  However, because of his all-around skillset, I certainly think Smith can be a low-end regular who holds down second base and can also move around the infield, FV 45.