Astros GM Dana Brown Indicates Cam Smith's Roster Spot Not Guaranteed for Next Season

Houston Astros general manager Dana Brown indicated that rookie Cam Smith's roster spot for next season is not guaranteed, suggesting he "could begin next season at Triple-A Sugar Land 'if he hasn't turned the corner'." Brown expressed high hopes for Smith's potential, calling him a future "star," but emphasized the need for more consistency. Smith, who turns 23 in February, made the Opening Day roster after a strong spring training but finished his rookie campaign with a .236/.312/.358 slash line, nine home runs, and a 27.8 percent strikeout rate over 134 games. He saw limited playing time late in the season, starting only six of the final 20 games. Despite surprisingly solid play in right field, a new position for him, Smith's limited minor-league experience (32 games, 134 plate appearances) means further seasoning might benefit both him and the Astros, though he will have a chance to win a starting job in spring training.