Will the Astros be able to put runs on the scoreboard this year, after losing out on Alex Bregman? The concern is now put to rest by their new prospect at 3B. The rookie slugger Cam Smith is in the house, and his pair of homers against the Mets in spring training are making the Astros fans hopeful for this year. He’s already the Astros’ top-ranked prospect and is ranked 59th overall in MLB.

While it is too early to promote Smith as Bregman’s replacement, the former’s MLB stint started with a bang. Moreover, Smith scoring those homers in front of his family is what makes his arrival memorable. The arrival of Smith also conveys the fact that the Astros’ future is in safe hands. So will Cam Smith be able to become the clubhouse leader for the Astros? What can fans expect from him this year? 

Cam Smith has announced his arrival 

After losing out on the Bregman sweepstakes, the Astros got left with Isaac Paredes. However, this spring training offered a new alternative in the name of Cam Smith who can enhance the depth strength behind Paredes. Well, coming as a mid-game substitution, and hitting two home runs in two at-bats against the Mets in an 8-5 Astros win, is worthy enough for the team. While spring training is all about experimenting with the prospects, the X-factor that comes with Smith is making him ahead of others. “It doesn’t look like it’s his first spring training camp,” said the Astros manager Joe Espada. 

How did it feel to hit a pair of homers in the first spring training and that too in front of the family? “It’s a blessing. It’s a beautiful opportunity,” said Cam Smith during his spring training press meet. Why not when someone has to make a mark in front of family and the hometown? The 6-foot-3 right-handed hitter has now reached base safely in all four spring plate appearances, logging two walks in each of his first two PA this past Saturday. Cam Smith is now the top prospect of the Astros, and this season will showcase how he performs during clutch situations.

A potential future ahead

While Smith made a remarkable debut, the question is whether he can be a horse for a long race. Well, Smith is just one year old in a professional baseball career. He started last year with the Cubs and played 32 games for the Cubs’ affiliates, slashing .313/.396/.609 with seven homers, 24 RBI, and two stolen bases. Cam Smith with his 6-foot-3, 224-pound athletic build, is a terror on the field, putting enough damage at the plate. “Aircraft carrier,” said the Astros owner Dana Brown, referring to the behemoth powerhouse.

Isaac Paderes is all set to start at 3B, and this spring season made Smith a strong contender behind Paderes. Yes, Cam Smith has a long road to travel before getting into the big picture. For the unversed, his inability to put the ball in the air at a high rate, and a high number of ground balls, limits his home runs. His homers this spring season though suppressed the concern around him, at least for now. It is just the start for Smith, and with further grooming and experience, the Astros can hope for a new slugger coming their way. 

Cam Smith got his dream debut, and now the tougher pitchers in the majors will test his skills. Time will now answer if a new superstar is in the making.

What do you think about the potential of Cam Smith? Share your thoughts with us below.