According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the veteran infielder opted out of his contract with the New York Yankees on Sunday. Smith had been playing for their Triple-A team, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, where he appeared in 45 games, hitting .255 with eight homers and 28 RBI — with seven of those home runs coming in May.
Smith originally joined the Yankees on a minor league deal in January after spending time earlier in the 2024 season with both the Red Sox and Reds. He gained popularity in Boston for his steady play while filling in for the injured Triston Casas, but was designated for assignment once Casas returned, and was eventually released.
He then signed a major league contract with the Reds just four days later, appearing in nine games and hitting .192 with five hits and four runs scored.
Overall, Smith made 83 appearances (69 starts) for Boston, posting a .237 average with six home runs, 20 doubles, and a .706 OPS. He also pitched three scoreless innings in relief, allowing just two hits.
Although the Red Sox now face depth concerns at first base due to Casas’ season-ending knee surgery, Abraham Toro has stepped up, and Kristian Campbell is expected to see time at the position as well.
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