PT TOMORROW: NL East—Not a smooth path for Smith in NY

New York Mets

When 2017 ended, many felt it was a foregone conclusion that Dominic Smith would be the Mets’ first baseman in 2018 and perhaps well into the future. Smith, the 11th overall pick in 2013, had just finished his first taste of MLB after a solid advance through the minors that featured a .293 average and a .793 OPS over parts of five seasons. He had landed at #68 on the 2017 HQ100 list. If there was one concern, it was a perceived lack of power—he had averaged about 10 homers a season in the minors. There were some bumps during his 2017 audition, notably a .226 xBA and a physique that was reminiscent of a bulked up offensive lineman, but he did have a 116 PX and homered about once in ever 18 at bats.

As the offseason...

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

A new injury on top of Kyle Teel's previous one may open up new opportunity for a White Sox catcher. Plus, paths to more playing time for Kyle Manzardo, injury returns in DET, SP depth in KC, and the struggles of Brooks Lee in MIN.
May 21 2026 3:05am
The Mariners added Brennen Davis to the 40-man roster, moving him one step closer to joining the team.
May 20 2026 3:06am
Mickey Gasper has taken a prominent spot in Boston's struggling lineup and is flashing some interesting skills. Plus, Spencer Jones' early struggles could necessitate change for NYY, and more.
May 19 2026 3:05am
The BHQ playing time metrics give us a new perspective on our previous beliefs about NL West players. So this week, let's see what we can learn.
May 16 2026 3:06am

Tools