Seth Smith OF: Waiver Wire
By Ian Parker
Apr 6, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Seth Smith (7) hits an RBI-triple against the Los Angeles Angels during the third inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Often times, some of those late-round sleepers you waited patiently on simply bust. While it is too early in the season to really tell, there are still great pick-ups sitting on waivers. One candidate is Seattle Mariners outfielder Seth Smith.
Smith had a pretty good season last year with the San Diego Padres. He hit .266/.367/.440/135 (BA/OBP/SLG/OPS+) with 12 home runs, 48 RBI, 55 runs scored, and 69 walks in 136 games. In Seattle, he is in a strict platoon with Justin Ruggiano facing lefties. So far in the season, Smith has only played one game due to a hamstring strain, but is not heading to the DL.
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You can use this platoon to your advantage. Smith has hit .278/.359/.484/110 against righties in his career as opposed to .205/.291/.314/53 against lefties. On opening day, Smith went 3-for-3 with two doubles, a triple, 2 RBI’s, and a run scored off Jered Weaver. Now while this is the smallest of samples, I would expect Smith to put up solid numbers throughout the season.
Smith will be even more valuable if the hitters before and after him can do their jobs. Smith has been penciled in to the number two slot behind Austin Jackson and in front of Robinson Cano, Nelson Cruz, and Kyle Seager. If these players live up to their names, then expect big contributions from Smith.
If he can stay healthy, Smith should see the bulk of playing time against right-handed pitching. If you have an injured outfielder or someone on your bench you can afford to drop, Smith is worth looking at. He is at least worth spot starts when you have an empty slot in your outfield or utility position.