A Late‑Round Prospect with Upside
Steven Smith, a graduate student at Appalachian State University, has turned a strong 2026 season into a compelling case for the upcoming 2026 MLB Draft.
At 5‑foot‑8 and 166 pounds, Smith may not fit the traditional power‑hitter mold, but his .355 batting average, six home runs, 18 doubles, 50 RBIs and 48 runs scored illustrate a knack for getting on base and driving in teammates.
His defensive skill set adds another layer of intrigue; he has logged time at second base, shortstop and third base, and his arm strength regularly reaches the low 90s, a rare attribute for a position player.
A late‑season pitch to the face forced him to miss the final stretch of the campaign, yet his 2.57 ERA in six relief appearances as a pitcher shows he can contribute on the mound as well.
Scouts are beginning to view him as a senior‑graduate sign, potentially available in rounds 15 through 20, or as a highly sought‑after undrafted free agent if he clears the draft board.