Dominic Smith was ranked as the number two best first base prospect by MLB Pipeline today.
Scouting Grades: Hit: 60 | Power: 55 | Run: 40 | Arm: 50 | Field: 60 | Overall: 55
Smith was perhaps the best pure prep hitter in the 2013 Draft class, and the Mets grabbed him with the 11th overall pick. He looks like the total package at first base, combining solid athleticism and defense with a sweet left-handed swing.
Smith has the potential to hit for both average and power. His hand-eye coordination and advanced pitch recognition skills allow him to get on base often, while still driving balls.
Smith is a below-average runner, limiting him to first base. He has all the skills necessary to develop above-average defense at the position. Even if his defense does develop as expected, there will always be pressure on Smith’s bat. Scouts are confident he will provide enough offense to make him a solid Major Leaguer in time.
Smith was the Mets first round pick in 2013 (No. 11 overall) and batted .301/.398/ .439 in his first 51 games as a pro.
Yesterday, the Mets minor league executives even suggested that they may have Smith skip Low-A Brooklyn and start his first, full season in Single-A Savannah.
Good stuff…
