The Toros del Este of the Dominican Winter League has released New York Mets first baseman/outfielder Dominic Smith after just seven games.
Smith, 23, was hitting .133/.187/.166 with more strikeouts (5) than hits (4) in 30 at-bats.
The entire 2018 season has been a struggle for Smith. Despite showing up to spring camp in terrific shape, he also showed up for the first game late and was scratched from the lineup. From there he had an injury that held him out for most of the spring then he proceeded to struggle with the bat in Triple-A Las Vegas.
Smith was exposed to outfield given the Mets limited depth at the position (also Peter Alonso needing to play at higher level eventually) and understandably struggled there.
The left-handed hitter slashed .224/.255/.420 in 149 big league plate appearances this season after posting a .708 OPS in hitter friendly Vegas.
For people unfamiliar with the winter leagues, they are quick to replace players – specifically younger ones – if they struggle early on. Part of the reason for this is the short season they play.
