- Full name Hans Smith
- Born
- Profile Throws: L
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Managers rated Smith the best reliever in the high Class A California League last year despite minor elbow problems that all but shut him down after mid-June. He's a strike machine who creates an intimidating presence with his 6-foot-9 frame and lefthanded delivery. He's a sinker-slider pitcher who touches 92 mph with his fastball. His hard slider is particularly effective against lefthanders because it jams them with its boring movement. Smith prefers to work inside and down in the strike zone, and possesses a good splitter that makes his regular fastball even more effective. The Rays are impressed with the way he's able to repeat his delivery for a pitcher of his size. Provided he maintains his consistency with his mechanics, he has a chance to move quickly. Smith didn't need offseason surgery and will be promoted to Double-A for 2002.
Best Tools List
- Rated Best Reliever in the California League in 2001