Dominic Smith departed the Boston Red Sox organization on Aug. 20, to the disappointment of fans everywhere.
Smith served as a worthy stand-in for Triston Casas at first base while he rehabbed from a rib cartilage injury, and was designated for assignment on Aug. 16 in preparation for the 24-year-old's return. Smith's tenure with the Red Sox has already earned him a new job in another uniform.
The Cincinnati Reds have signed Smith to a major league deal, per MLB insider Jeff Passan. The signing came just two days after his official release from the Red Sox organization.
Smith began the 2024 campaign on a minor-league deal with the Tampa Bay Rays until he signed with the Sox on May 1. He clocked a .237/.317/.390 slash line over 83 games with Boston, and his tenure there may have helped put him back on the map.
Smith was a highly anticipated first-round pick who never panned out for the New York Mets. He played six seasons in New York, then one with the Nationals in 2023, where he posted decent numbers.
Dominic Smith's tenure with Red Sox may have revitalized his career
First baseman Dominic Smith is signing a major league deal with the Cincinnati Reds, sources tell ESPN. Smith was released by the Boston after serving as its primary 1B since May. Red Sox really liked him, but Triston Casas' return squeezed him out. Reds deal is pending physical.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 22, 2024
The Reds have had a tumultuous season at first base. Christian Encarnacion-Strand has been out since May 8 with a wrist fracture and Jeimer Candelario was placed on the 10-day IL with a toe fracture on Aug. 20. Smith was a reliable option for Boston during his tenure and should afford the Reds some stability in the corner, along with Ty France.
Teams weren't itching to bring Smith to their major-league rosters after his stint with the Nationals, but the chemistry and consistency he brought to the Red Sox clubhouse may have changed the tune of his career. Smith adjusted quickly to playing in Boston and he was clearly embraced by the team and fans.
Smith's offense was trending in the right direction in the month before Casas' return. He slashed .273/.326/.511 in his last 30 games with the Red Sox. If he can continue his positive trend and have an equal impact in the Reds' clubhouse. Smith should have no problem finding a starting job next season.