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

Two impact Padres' starting pitchers are close to a return. Plus implications of Will Smith's neck, Rockies OF situation, and check in on young players who may be getting their chance in the NL West.
Jul 25 2026 3:07am
Shane Smith's awful season hasn't improved in the minors. Plus, two top prospects at Triple-A for CLE, Javier Báez starts a rehab assignment, and a look at SP depth in KC and MIN.
Jul 23 2026 3:05am
The Angels may be trading some starting pitchers at the deadline, and George Klassen will be ready to help the team.
Jul 22 2026 3:05am
George Lombard Jr. has returned to health; could a major league call-up be next? Plus, major trade deadline implications as several AL East teams veer towards buyer or seller territory.
Jul 21 2026 3:05am

Tools