8.16.24
Episode 20
Arabia Wolves Outfielder Dwight Smith Jr. Talks MLB Career and Global Growth of Baseball
Dwight Smith Jr., former first-round draft pick and Arabia Wolves outfielder, joins the show to reflect on his journey through baseball, from his early career to his impact on the game today. He reflects on his father, Dwight Smith Sr.’s, memorable 1995 World Series win with the Atlanta Braves and his own journey from being drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays to making his major league debut against his hometown Braves. Dwight delves into his thoughts during the 2018 trade that sent him to the rebuilding Baltimore Orioles and his role as a leader with the team. He also provides insight into his experience at last year’s All-Star Showcase in Dubai and the significance of expanding the game globally.With excitement, Dwight discusses the upcoming Baseball United Cup (February 22, 2025 - March 1, 2025) and Baseball United Season 1 (October 23, 2025 - November 23, 2025), expressing his confidence in the league’s bright future.
What We Discuss
- 0:30 Intro
- 1:34 Dwight’s recent hot streak at the plate
- 3:23 Growing up with a father in the MLB
- 6:51 Drafted in the first round by the Toronto Blue Jays
- 7:58 Adjusting to the grind of professional baseball
- 9:38 Making his MLB debut against his hometown Atlanta Braves
- 12:35 Lessons learned from playing alongside Jose Bautista and Russell Martin
- 14:27 Being traded to the Baltimore Orioles during their rebuild
- 18:35 Playing through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic
- 19:25 Competing in an MLB The Show tournament
- 23:26 The electrifying atmosphere at last year’s All-Star Showcase
- 26:04 Mentoring international prospects
- 27:20 Contributing to the global growth of the game
- 31:19 Anticipation for the Baseball United Cup and Season 1
- 34:40 Confidence in Baseball United’s future success
- 36:04 Mount Rushmore of outfielders
