Dominic Smith is already starting to get himself in tip-top shape for Spring Training.
According to the 22-year-old, he has dropped 11 or 12 pounds since the conclusion of the season.
The former first round pick hit .198/.262/.395/.658 with 17 runs, nine home runs, and 26 RBI in 167 at-bats. His defense was also a weakness in 2017 as he had a UZR/150 of -2.8 and -7 defensive runs saved. Overall he was worth a -0.6 WAR according to Fangraphs.
A big knock on Smith has been his weight, with even general manager Sandy Alderson saying earlier this month that it’s something he had to work on.
“Dominic’s going to have to be careful about his conditioning, certainly in the next few years if not throughout his career,” Alderson said according to Marc Carig of Newsday.
Smith responded last week with encouraging words.
“I’m not taking anything for granted. I know I didn’t perform like I’m capable of,” Smith said Monday on SNY. “I know I didn’t perform how I’d like and I’m definitely going to work my butt off.
“I’m going into spring training to win the job,’’ Smith continued. “I’ve overcome odds my whole life. It does motivate me when [Alderson] says stuff like that and he should say stuff like that because it’s the truth. I’m driven. My time is now.’’
Honestly, good for Dominic.
While I think the Mets might consider someone that can play first base on a short-term pact like Adam Lind or someone like Jay Bruce that is also a corner outfielder, Alderson’s statements were mostly to light a fire under Smith’s rear.
I don’t think the Mets are giving up on Smith at all, and why should they? He’s just 22 and one of the team’s top prospects.
Him shedding 11 pounds is a great sign and I fully believe he will come into Spring Training with a mission to win the job.
