Former Red Sox first baseman signs minor-league deal with division rival Yankees
Throughout his short time with the Red Sox, first baseman Dom Smith was a fan favorite. Smith is heading back to the Big Apple, agreeing to a minor league deal with the Yankees, according to YES Network’s Jack Curry.
Smith played 84 games with the Red Sox last season, filling in for injured Triston Casas, hitting .237 with six homers and 34 RBI. In total, he played in 93 games split between Boston and Cincinnati, slashing .233/.313/.378. He also began the 2024 season playing for the Tampa Bay Rays’ Triple-A affiliate before opting out and signing with the Red Sox.
Red Sox skipper Alex Cora offered praise for Smith’s contributions on and off the field after he was designated for assignment in August.
“He was outstanding. Outstanding,” Cora said. “It’s one of those that’s a tough decision. But one that everybody knew was going to happen. Roster-wise, it was hard to keep him with us. But he put in great at-bats. He only had one bad defensive week. He didn’t make like two plays. But after that, he settled down. The picks at first base and the calmness for the guys around him was very important. In the clubhouse, huge. It was very important for those guys. Always upbeat, always ready to go. He found his groove two weeks ago or three weeks ago.
“He’s A-plus. A-plus. He’s a good player. He’s still young, and he has a bright future, still, in the game.”
Originally the No. 11 overall pick by the Mets during the 2013 draft, he made his debut for them in 2017. He spent time in New York’s system until 2022 and then signed with the Nationals in 2023.
The Yankees have depth at first base heading into spring training after signing Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year deal this winter and have both DJ LeMahieu and Ben Rice on the 40-man roster.
Smith heads to the Bronx, offering them a left-handed veteran presence that will likely begin the year with their Triple-A affiliate.
