Dominic Smith Powers Braves’ Impressive Season Start

Dominic Smith has become an unexpected offensive spark for Atlanta this season. He delivered a walk-off grand slam on opening weekend.

Early-season production

With a .357 average, Dominic Smith Powers Braves’ Impressive Season Start, while collecting eight RBIs and two homers. He has mostly worked in a platoon role, but his bat pressures the manager to play him more.

Path to the roster

Smith arrived at spring training as a non-roster invitee and was not expected to make Atlanta’s Opening Day roster. Strong Grapefruit League work, a few injuries, and Jurickson Profar’s second banned-substance suspension created an opening.

Manager usage and lineup effects

Manager Walt Weiss has favored matchup-based lineups to start the season. That approach had given Jonah Heim and Eli White regular opportunities before Smith’s hot run complicated playing-time decisions.

Resume and past performance

Smith’s career has had ups and downs, but he has shown production in smaller roles. In 204 at-bats last season with San Francisco, he hit .284.

During the COVID-shortened 2020 season with the Mets, Smith hit .316 and drove in 42 runs. He followed that with 58 RBIs the next season.

Impact on Atlanta’s lineup

Smith has added life to Atlanta’s middle and bottom order and boosted overall lineup depth. While Braves pitching and catcher Drake Baldwin draw headlines, role players like Smith deserve recognition.

Smith appears to be earning Walt Weiss’ trust and more playing time. Filmogaz.com will monitor whether the early-season magic continues.