With the New York Yankees constantly shuffling pitchers between Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, PA and the Bronx because of injuries, the first appearance in Triple-A by former major leaguer Greg Smith after leaving Grand Prairie, TX (American Association) was one to watch.
The 27-year-old southpaw did not disappoint. He was called on to hold a 3-1 lead in the eighth inning at Syracuse (Toronto) this week, and got the next five outs while only allowing one walk and striking out two. The closer got the final out.
Smith’s first taste of Independent Baseball was a good one for both sides. He had a 3-1 record and 2.54 earned run average in six starts at Grand Prairie to help the AirHogs climb atop their division. Smith said he “had some reservations about Independent Baseball (before reporting), but after playing in Grand Prairie those are no more—this league and team is as professional as it gets”.
The following is an excerpt from an Independent Baseball Insider column including C...
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