Josh Smith’s journey to the Texas Rangers‘ starting lineup didn’t begin with publicity; rather, it began with a departure from the New York Yankees’ system. The dynamic infielder’s path serves as a reminder that opportunities frequently present themselves in unexpected places, as he now makes his Bronx comeback wearing a Rangers outfit.
Drafted by the Yankees in the second round out of LSU in 2019, Smith quickly showed he could hit and defend across the infield. But in a crowded Yankees farm system brimming with infield talent, Smith’s path to the majors was anything but clear.
Following the lost 2020 season due to the pandemic, Smith returned in 2021 with strong performances at Low-A and High-A, but prospects like Anthony Volpe and Oswald Peraza, younger and more spotlighted, dominated the internal conversation in New York.
Smith’s career took a different turn after he was included in the trade deal sent to Texas during the 2021 deadline, rather than sitting in a system where he might have gone unnoticed. The Yankees wanted to add veteran strength to their squad, but Texas acquired a player who was eager to establish himself.
Cornerstone Player for Texas
The change of location turned out to be crucial. Smith started to establish himself as a dependable and versatile player after making his major league debut with the Rangers in 2022. He played in almost 150 games last season, producing above-average defense at several positions and hitting for a .731 OPS. He’s improved his game much more this year.
Heading into this week’s series in New York, Smith owns a .285 batting average and a .769 OPS while offering flexibility that few players in the league can match. He’s spent time at shortstop, third base, first, and all three outfield spots, filling in wherever needed, including leadoff duties against right-handed pitchers. In a season challenged by injuries to key Rangers starters, Smith’s steady presence has made him a difference-maker.
“He’s one of those guys you can plug in anywhere and know you’ll get great effort and results,” said manager Bruce Bochy.
Despite his success in Texas, Smith carries no resentment toward his former club. He still keeps in touch with former Yankees teammates and speaks highly of his development within their system. But there’s no doubt the move to Texas gave him something the Yankees couldn’t at the time: a clear runway to show what he could be.
Now, with his bat heating up and his glove proving indispensable, Smith has emerged not just as a fill-in but as a cornerstone. The Yankees may not regret the trade, but they’re certainly seeing what they let go.