D’Andre Smith

Draft Prospects

• Ranked #153 prospect in 2022 draft
  School: Southern California Committed/Drafted: Never Drafted
  Age At Draft: 21.2
  BA Grade: 40/High
  Scouting Grades: Hit: 40 | Power: 45 | Run: 50 | Field: 50 | Arm: 55
  If you want a reminder of how far one-time power Southern California has fallen, consider that if Smith is drafted in the top 10 rounds, he will become the first USC infielder taken in the top 10 rounds since Ricky Oropesa was selected in the third round in 2011. A draft-eligible true sophomore, Smith tantalizes with average or even above-average raw power, present physicality and the ability to stick at a premium defensive position. His legs and arms aren’t always in sync on his swing and he’s gotten pull happy with a swing that doesn’t stay in the zone for long. At his best, he can drive the ball for doubles and home runs to both power alleys, but so far, that’s only been seen in glimpses. Smith hit .286/.380/.471 with eight home runs and an 18.1% strikeout rate this season. He has gotten faster, but that’s just gotten him to average speed. Smith has been the Trojans’ everyday shortstop, but he’ll likely need to move to second base in pro ball. He’s a little stiff and his actions aren’t as fluid as teams look for in a shortstop. Smith’s maturity and high-energy motor have impressed evaluators.
• Ranked #129 prospect in 2020 draft
  The 5-foot-8 Smith stood out for his tools and bat speed at the Area Code Games and continued to play above his size through the spring. He earned consistently positive reviews from scouts across Southern California before the season shut down. Smith earns comparisons to Ray Durham as an athletic middle infielder who packs surprising power for his height. He has present strength and flashes above-average raw power, often getting to it in games against good pitching. He projects as an average hitter with average power overall. Smith is an average runner capable of swiping a bag and has the foot speed to stay at shortstop. He moves well to his glove side, has an average, accurate arm and turns double plays well. Most evaluators project Smith to move to second base like Durham, while others see him as an everyday utilityman like Josh Harrison. Regardless of his defensive role, Smith’s ability to hit and play the middle infield has him in top five rounds consideration. He is committed to Southern California.