Bold claim: Josh Smith is shaping up as the leading candidate to take over at second base this season. According to Shawn McFarland from The Dallas Morning News, Smith appears to hold the edge for the starting keystone gig.
Though no official declaration has been issued by the team, a telltale hint came from Corey Seager during a media session earlier in camp. When asked about collaborating with a new second baseman, Seager pointed to Smith, saying, “I’ve played a few games with him already, so you kind of know how he operates. I’m really excited for him to get this opportunity.” While nothing is locked in at this early stage, Smith has already started two spring games at second and has been concentrating his fielding drills at the keystone position outside of exhibition play, McFarland notes.
If you want an edge in fantasy baseball or deeper league prep, this situation bears watching as spring unfolds. Will Smith hold onto the job once real games begin, or will a breakthrough from a rival push him aside? Stay tuned to camp reports and line-up rotations as teams finalize their depth charts.