Traditionally, the ninth spot in the batting order belongs to the pitcher. But don’t tell that to Braves outfielder Mallex Smith.
Smith has been dominant in that role. On May 31, Smith hit a three-run triple against the San Francisco Giants. That was his first hit with the bases loaded.
Two weeks earlier, on May 17, Smith hit two home runs from the spot. This made him the fourth Brave ever to accomplish the feat.
Braves interim manager Brian Snitker has noticed his success. He said he will continue to put him in spots to succeed.
“Mallex’s confidence and take on things is going to allow him to be successful,” Snitker said. “It is a great trait for a young player to have. He can do more than run and he is a talented young man.”
On the season, Smith ranks second on the team in homers (3) and RBIs (18). He also has six stolen bases. Those numbers have impressed Snitker as well.
“It shows that the kid is coming along,” Snitker said. “It’s OK that he is developing and growing overall. I think we have done a good job with him.”
For Smith, he isn’t too concerned with the numbers. He just wants to help the team win, just like against the Giants. He believes that it the team is putting the pieces together.
“We just got to continue to work together,” Smith said. “The pitching has been timely and the hitting has been timely now. We are just trying to ride this wave.”
