AL Central: Control issues lingering for Smith
Jul 23 2026
Following a surprisingly good rookie season that ended on a strong note (3.86 xERA, 17% K-BB%, 12.8% SwK in the second half of 2025), Shane Smith looked like a potential breakout candidate coming into 2026. Now, after a nightmarish three starts that earned him a demotion to Triple-A and a lengthy injury while there, he just looks broken.
His brief time with the White Sox this year was marred by some serious control problems (18% BB%, 38% Ball%, 51% FpK) that led to a 10.80 ERA and 2.52 WHIP over three starts. That wasn't an issue for him in 2025, as he posted a 9% BB% with similarly league-average sub-indicators (36% Ball%, 59% FpK), nor was it a problem during his years in the minors prior to last season. But the walks...
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From PT Tomorrow
As the 2026 season winds down, these players are just getting started
Sep 18 2026 3:05am
Sep 18 2026 3:05am
The AL West has some interesting options for some new playing time heading into 2027.
Sep 17 2026 3:03am
Sep 17 2026 3:03am
A slugging Yohandy Morales tries to pound out a spot for himself on the 2026 Nationals and beyond. Plus: SS in ATL; bench in PHI; Marsee in MIA; Tong at NYM; more.
Sep 15 2026 10:05am
Sep 15 2026 10:05am
This week, we point out an under-the-radar option in L.A., welcome starting pitchers back to Arizona and San Diego, check in on a favorite of ours in Colorado, and take a closer look at the Giants' starting rotation.
Sep 12 2026 3:05am
Sep 12 2026 3:05am
A look at how free agency, potential call-ups, and other roster decisions might impact lineups, rotations, and bullpens for all five teams next year.
Sep 10 2026 3:05am
Sep 10 2026 3:05am
