Dodgers News: Will Smith Expresses Desire to Appear in Home Run Derby
The full All-Star rosters were released on Sunday and although the Dodgers had four players named to the Midsummer Classic, a pair of big LA names didn’t make the cut. Both Freddie Freeman and Will Smith were omitted from the NL roster and can now only make the squad as an injury replacement.
Both are deserving of an All-Star spot, but unfortunately for Will Smith, this isn’t the first time he’s been overlooked for an All-Star nod. Hopefully, it’s the last.
In an interview with AM570’s David Vassegh on Saturday, Smith expressed his desire to participate in the Home Run Derby if he earned an All-Star spot.
“That would be sweet. I would try to put on a show and win it all. For sure.”
Vassegh then asked Smith about the possibility of making his first NL All-Star team.
“It would be surreal honestly, especially in LA, in front of our fans. It [would be] my first one, it would be awesome, I would be honored. I hope it happens.”
Braves backstop Travis d’Arnaud earned the reserve spot over Smith, despite the fact that Smith owns the better wRC+ (128) and OPS (.799) through Sunday.
For now, Smith will have to wait for the honor of representing the Dodgers at the Midsummer Classic, but based on his statistical track record, the 27-year-old should breakthrough next season.
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