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Kevin Smith showing signs of life in Las Vegas

By David Hill

Jun 5, 2022; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics third baseman Kevin Smith (1) walks back to the dugout after stiking out with the bases loaded during the seventh inning against the Boston Red Sox at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 5, 2022; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics third baseman Kevin Smith (1) walks back to the dugout after stiking out with the bases loaded during the seventh inning against the Boston Red Sox at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kevin Smith had been another disappointing youngster for the Oakland A’s this season, failing to show any of the offensive potential he possesses. The hope was that a return to Triple-A would get his bat going once again.

He finally started to show some signs of life on Saturday. Not only did Smith have a two homer game, but he also hit for the cycle, his ninth inning single completing the ninth cycle in Las Vegas Aviators history.

Oakland A’s hope cycle sends Kevin Smith off on high note

Smith was handed the A’s starting role at third base but was unable to do anything with the opportunity. He produced a disappointing .180/.216/.302 batting line in his 151 plate appearances, hitting two homers and nine doubles while stealing four bases. Although he was excellent defensively, he just did not hit enough to justify his spot in the lineup.

He also had not hit much in Las Vegas. Even with his cycle, Smith has a .258/.322/.390 batting line with seven homers and 16 doubles in his 330 plate appearances. As was the case in Oakland, Smith’s strikeouts are concerning, as he has struck out 99 times thus far.

His bat is going to determine exactly what type of role Smith will have going forward. It is possible that he will eventually develop into a viable major league option, but for now, he appears to be a possible utility option off of the bench.  That can be subject to change, especially if Smith is able to close out the 2022 campaign on a high note with his cycle being the catalyst to that improved performance.

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Kevin Smith has disappointed with the bat regardless of his level this season. Maybe his cycle on Saturday will be the boost he needs to get going.