Boston Red Sox DFA Former MVP Finalist
Smith, who joined the Red Sox earlier this season after opting out of a minor league deal with the Tampa Bay Rays, filled in during Casas' absence.
Despite posting a .237/.317/.390 slash line with six home runs and 20 doubles over 278 plate appearances, Smith's production fell short of what the team needed from the traditionally power-heavy first base position.
With Boston eyeing a playoff push, they are betting on Casas' potential to provide a much-needed boost to their lineup.
Dominic Smith, Designated For Assignment by the Red Sox today to make room for Triston Casas, may not be a great player but he definitely belongs in the major leagues. (It’s a tough business, folks).
— Bob Ryan (@GlobeBobRyan) August 16, 2024
Casas, sidelined since April 20 with a rib cage injury, showed promising form during his rehab assignment with Triple-A Worcester, slashing .300/.404/.550 with one home run and seven RBIs in 11 games.
His return is timely, as the Red Sox have struggled recently, losing six of their last eight games and slipping in the tight AL Wild Card race. Boston hopes that Casas' presence will help reignite their offense, particularly with key players like Rafael Devers in a slump and Tyler O'Neill still recovering from a leg infection.
Red Sox have DFAed relief pitcher Dominic Smith
— 🎙️Not Another Sox Podcast🎙️ (@NASPpodcast) August 16, 2024
He had a 0.00 ERA on the season pic.twitter.com/BtcwaW4aX6
The decision to designate Smith for assignment carries some risk, especially if Casas struggles to find his rhythm after the extended layoff.
Smith could potentially be picked up by a rival team in need of first base help, such as the New York Yankees.
Smith's biggest season came in 2020, when he placed 13th in MVP voting. That season saw him post a .316/.377/.616 triple-slash line, with 10 home runs, 42 RBIs, and 27 runs scored across 50 games played.
Photo Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
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