The Tampa Bay Rays have inked first baseman Dominic Smith to a minor league deal, as reported by FanSided’s Robert Murray. Smith wasted no time in finding a new opportunity after opting out of his previous minor league agreement with the Cubs just over a week ago.
Free-agent first baseman Dom Smith and the Tampa Bay Rays are in agreement on a minor-league contract, according to a source familiar with the deal. Smith recently opted out of a contract with the Chicago Cubs.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) March 30, 2024
The Rays find themselves in need of left-handed hitters, particularly at first base, with both Josh Lowe and Jonathan Aranda sidelined due to injuries. Aranda, who was expected to see time at first base, further compounds the team’s roster challenges. While left-handed hitter Austin Shenton was called up for Opening Day, Smith offers a seasoned alternative and may prompt Shenton’s return to the minors after a brief stint in the majors.
Smith has faced non-tender decisions in the past two offseasons, initially by the Mets following the 2022 season. The Mets selected Smith 11th overall in the 2013 draft, and he showed promise by posting a .299/.366/.571 slash line with 21 home runs across 396 plate appearances in 2019-20. However, injuries led to a decline in performance over the subsequent seasons. Despite signing a one-year, $2 million deal with the Nationals last winter, Smith struggled, hitting .254/.326/.366 with 12 home runs in 586 plate appearances.
Moving to Tampa Bay marks a fresh start for Smith, who is still just 28 years old. The Rays have a track record of revitalizing players’ careers, offering hope for a potential resurgence for Smith. Nonetheless, his immediate focus will be on earning regular playing time and making his way back to the majors.
