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Astros surprised their top prospect with emotional career news

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Mar 25, 2025 6:35 PM ET

The Houston Astros staged an emotional moment for their top prospect as they informed him that he would be making their Opening Day roster.

Astros manager Joe Espada informed third baseman Cam Smith that Smith was making the team out of spring camp. To do so, he actually called Smith’s family into the clubhouse to give him the news.

The Astros shared video of the moment on social media, as Smith broke down in tears as soon as he realized what was happening.

The call up. #BuiltForThis pic.twitter.com/5d1HxEFk0l
— Houston Astros (@astros) March 25, 2025

Smith added some further context to his emotional reaction after the announcement by telling reporters about the sacrifices his family had made for him.

“At one point, it was just me and (my mom) in the house,” Smith said while holding back tears. “She struggled to take me to baseball games and practice. I’m just happy to do it for her.”

Cam Smith, who is in tears of joy, talks about making the team pic.twitter.com/Z5y3qFG10O
— Ari Alexander (@AriA1exander) March 25, 2025

The Astros acquired Smith as part of the Kyle Tucker trade this offseason. Entering camp, the 22-year-old was seen as a longshot to make the team, but hit .342 with four home runs in 15 spring games to essentially force the team’s hand. The team gave him some time in right field toward the end of spring training, suggesting he will get some time as a fourth outfielder early in the season.

Smith is rated the No. 58 overall prospect in baseball by MLB.com. The Cubs drafted him 14th overall in the 2024 MLB Draft, and he played just 32 games in the minors before Tuesday’s promotion.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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