As Braves officials pondered whether to call up top outfield prospect Mallex Smith, one factor they considered is how a rough start to his big-league career might affect his confidence.
As it turns out, Smith is struggling at the plate early in his big-league career even when accounting for his go-ahead, RBI single in the 10th inning at the Marlins on Sunday. He entered Tuesday's game against the Dodgers hitting .130 ( 3-for-26) with 10 strikeouts and a .231 on-base percentage.
But before making his Turner Field debut on Tuesday, Smith said his confidence is unshaken.
“Baseball is hard,” he said. “You get off to a slow start, so what? We play so much. We’ve got a lot of opportunities to make it up. So I stick with it. You remain confident in yourself. Just put in the work, and you should be all right.”
The Braves promoted Smith from Triple-A Gwinnett on April 11 after placing center fielder Ender Inciarte on the 15-day disabled list. Manager Fredi Gonzalez said team officials considered the many available options to fill the open roster spot, including veterans Emilio Bonifacio and Matt Tuiasosopo.
However, the Braves ultimately decided to let Smith take his lumps in the majors now. Gonzalez said team officials were encouraged by Smith’s resiliency at Gwinnett last season when he made adjustments to break out of a hitting slump.
“This guy can help us win ballgames with his legs, his defense,” Gonzalez said. “He’s hitting (.130) but as long as you see that confidence that we see and there is no pouting, dragging his bat back? Shoot, let him play.”
Gonzalez said Smith should benefit from the guidance of veteran Braves players and as an example cited an incident from before the game Sunday in Miami.
Smith was at his locker stall as optional batting practice started but was told by a veteran player that the session isn’t optional for a rookie fresh from the minors.
“In our clubhouse we’ve got a good group of guys, a good group of veteran leadership guys that are going to take him under their wings and teach him what to do and how to be a big leaguer,” Gonzalez said. “Those things are priceless.”
Smith’s stay with the Braves should continue for a while with Inciarte expected to miss at least another two weeks with a hamstring injury. Smith has sparked interest among fans because of his athleticism and potential as a touted prospect.
Smith said he looked forward to his home debut after playing his first seven games on the road.
“We want the crowd to be packed,” Smith said. “We want the fans to be here to support us. We want to give them something to support, though. That’s what I’m really here for.”
