Smoak and wooden bats

[wickedwitch]

Do people think his numbers last summer are indicative of a more serious problem with Smoak's hitting? If so, is it fixable?

Thanks in advance!

[rhall]

Do people think his numbers last summer are indicative of a more serious problem with Smoak's hitting? If so, is it fixable?

Thanks in advance!

His play with Team USA last summer isn't considered (by most) to be indicative of Smoak's ability with wood bats. The summer before, he played very well in the collegiate Cape Cod League, which also uses wood bats. I believe he wasn't getting regular playing time with Team USA, either, which would have made it harder for Smoak to bust out of his slump.

[markpolis]

His play with Team USA last summer isn't considered (by most) to be indicative of Smoak's ability with wood bats. The summer before, he played very well in the collegiate Cape Cod League, which also uses wood bats. I believe he wasn't getting regular playing time with Team USA, either, which would have made it harder for Smoak to bust out of his slump.[/QUOTE]

I heard he batted fourth, behind Pedro Alvarez all summer. I know he struggled, but this is the first I've heard about him lacking PT.

[Stotle]

Smoak played in all 35 games, starting 32 of them. Only Danks and Alvarez started more games (34 and 35, respectively).

[rhall]

Smoak played in all 35 games, starting 32 of them. Only Danks and Alvarez started more games (34 and 35, respectively).

I stand corrected. I wasn't 100% sure (why I said "I believe"), but thought I had heard something about him not being the starter. Guess not.

[Stotle]

I stand corrected. I wasn't 100% sure (why I said "I believe"), but thought I had heard something about him not being the starter. Guess not.

It's hard to keep track of. Most wouldn't even know he played on Team USA.