In a move that solidifies their roster for years to come, the Los Angeles Dodgers have made a monumental commitment to catcher Will Smith, finalizing a 10-year contract extension worth $140 million. This deal not only keeps Smith with the Dodgers through the 2033 season but also marks the longest contract extension for a catcher in Major League Baseball history.
The agreement, which was announced on Wednesday, is a testament to Smith’s value to the team. At 28 years old, Smith has already established himself as a key player in the Dodgers’ lineup. His performance last season, with a .261 batting average, 19 home runs, and 76 RBIs, underscores his importance to the team’s offensive strength.
Smith’s new contract supersedes the $8.85 million, one-year agreement reached in January, which was intended to avoid arbitration under his rookie contract. The Dodgers clearly see Smith as a long-term investment, and this extension reflects their confidence in his abilities.
The financial commitment the Dodgers have made this offseason is staggering, with nearly $1.4 billion spent on five key players, including Smith. This level of spending is indicative of the Dodgers’ determination to remain at the pinnacle of the sport, building a team capable of competing for World Series titles year after year.
Smith’s deal is significant not only for its duration but also for its place among contracts for catchers in MLB history. It is the third-largest contract given to a catcher, behind Joe Mauer’s eight-year, $184 million extension and Buster Posey’s nine-year, $167 million extension. Smith joins an elite group of catchers who have signed deals worth more than $100 million, a testament to the premium placed on talented players at this demanding position.
The Dodgers’ investment in Smith is part of a broader strategy that has seen them secure long-term contracts with stars like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, as well as making high-profile acquisitions such as two-way star Shohei Ohtani. This aggressive approach to roster construction is a clear signal that the Dodgers are playing to win, sparing no expense in their pursuit of excellence.
Smith, who was selected by the Dodgers in the first round of the 2016 MLB Draft, has grown into one of the top-hitting catchers in baseball. His career .263 average with 91 homers and 308 RBIs over six seasons with the Dodgers speaks volumes about his consistent production at the plate.
Defensively, Smith has also proven his worth. Despite being graded as below average at pitch-framing, he has shown above-average skills in blocking pitches and delivering quick throws to second base. These attributes, combined with his offensive prowess, make him an invaluable asset to the Dodgers.
In his remarks, Smith expressed his love for the Dodgers and his gratitude for the opportunity to potentially finish his career with the team. His commitment to winning a World Series is aligned with the organization’s goals, making this partnership a perfect match for both parties.As the Dodgers gear up for another competitive season, the extension of Will Smith’s contract is a clear indication of their intent to remain at the forefront of the game. With a core group of players locked in for the long term, the Dodgers are poised to continue their success for many years to come.
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