Chris Smith---19 strikeouts to 0 walks as our AAA closer!

[Hate those Rodents]

Now, I see that the guy is 28 and might not be able to make it in the majors, but this is darn impressive. DeFelice sure looks like he belongs and is no spring chicken either. Just wanted to post this as a possible bullpen option should we need one during the long season.

[JohnBriggs12]

Smith's major league career is likely not over. I don't think his age is a factor at all especially for a bullpen arm.

[Brian the Automator]

Anyone know what he throws?

[yoshii8]

Here is a scouting report from Soxprospects.com, here is the link - http://www.soxprospects.com/players/smith-chris.htm

 

"Scouting Report: Average 89-93 mph fastball with a power 82 mph breaking curve and a pretty good change-up. Good knowledge of pitching. Missed most of 2002 season after an ATV accident, from which he took a couple years to recover fully. Great preparation skills. Throws off-speed pitches for strikes, often at unexpected counts. Pounds the strike zone with great command, doesn't walk many batters. Works quickly on the mound. Similar style to Mike Mussina. Converted to a reliever in 2007 where he demonstrated some very good success."

 

Sounds like he has a chance to be a major league reliever, maybe he will be another Melvin nugget.

[And That]

I was pumped when they signed him to a minor league deal - I'm surprised he didn't get a shot at the big league club in spring training. Smith has never been a highly regarded prospect but he's put up solid numbers, especially in relief. I fully expect to see him given a shot in Milwaukee sometime this year. If the Brewers want to send a message that walks aren't ok for pitchers, this might be the poster boy for some more command in the pen.

 

DeFelice

I see your DeFelice and raise you a Smeth.

[Brian the Automator]

Perhaps the Brewers can squeeze a Jayson Durocher-esque season out of him before he turns back into a pumpkin.

[dadofandrew]

If he keeps that up at AAA, he'll be up somewhere, because Doug won't keep him in Nashville if DC or SD calls and says they want him in the big leagues. Melvin never stands in the way of a veteran to get a big league check. Might get a decent replacement for him, but at that point, Doug would either put him on the 25 man or trade him to the team that wants him in the majors.

[TooLiveBrew]

Melvin never stands in the way of a veteran to get a big league check

 

I really like that about Melvin. Although he clearly could just horde guys, I think it's really great that he gives guys their shots with other teams when warranted.

[Brian the Automator]

I really like that about Melvin. Although he clearly could just horde guys, I think it's really great that he gives guys their shots with other teams when warranted.

It's a smart move in general. You're going to attract some nice players to minor league deals that way, and you're going to get some love from other GM's (like when we acquired Branyan from Cinci, I believe) for selling or giving away a player.

[Hammer]

Anyone know what he throws?

Typically a baseball but some players have been know to try all sorts of things. Anyway, this is a long season and it is nice to know that there may be other options down on the farm in case a need arises...

[Brian the Automator]

Typically a baseball but some players have been know to try all sorts of things.

 

?

[pitchleague]

Jayson Durocher--there's a name that I remember. Man, I thought he was going to be the real deal and a major "out of nowhere" for the Brewers for once. Too bad. . .

[joepepsi]

Is this the Chris Smith that was a 1st round draft choice for the Orioles (lefty) back in 2001 or the Chris Smith that was a 4th rounder for the Red Sox (rightie) in 2002?

[battlekow]

The latter. The former has not pitched since 2005.