Dominic Smith Joins Braves’ Non-Roster Invite to Major League Camp

The Atlanta Braves have added a versatile veteran to their spring lineup, inviting Dominic Smith to major league spring training as a non-roster invitee. This move gives them immediate depth behind first baseman Matt Olson and lets Smith try his hand at multiple spots, including left field and designated hitter.

At 30 years old, Smith brings experience and flexibility that fit Atlanta’s approach to building a strong bench and dynamic lineup for the regular season.

Braves invite Dominic Smith to spring training as a non-roster addition

The Braves chose to bring in Smith as a non-roster invitee, which feels like a smart, low-risk move. They’ll get to see what a veteran with real MLB experience can do and let him compete for time in different roles.

Smith’s journey includes stops with the Mets, Nationals, Red Sox, and Reds. He’s picked up plenty of clubhouse leadership and on-field savvy along the way, which could help a team hoping for another playoff run.

What Smith brings to Atlanta

Smith gives the Braves a few different options, both offensively and defensively. Here’s what stands out:

• He can cover first base, left field, or designated hitter, which helps reduce matchup risks for the roster.
• Smith swings left-handed and has plenty of MLB at-bats, so he offers a different look in the lineup.
• He’s a veteran who can help guide younger players during spring training and beyond.
• He provides depth behind Matt Olson, giving manager Brian Snitker more choices for the lineup and defense.
• This is a low-risk signing; the team can reassess as spring plays out.

Early camp buzz and winter chatter suggest Smith’s mix of contact and occasional pop could fit well for a Braves club that values players who can move around.

Career snapshot and versatility

Smith has spent nine years in the majors, building a resume with several teams and a steady bat. His career batting average sits around .250, and he’s hit 69 home runs so far.

He doesn’t have huge power, but his ability to play in different spots keeps him in the mix for a bench role or as an emergency starter.

Season-by-season context and notable numbers

• Last season with the San Francisco Giants, Smith hit .284 with five home runs and 33 RBIs in 63 games, filling in productively for injured or resting regulars.
• He reached a career high of 12 homers with the Washington Nationals in 2023, showing he can offer value when he’s in a good groove.
• His early career started with the New York Mets, followed by time with the Nationals, Red Sox, and Reds, so he’s seen a lot of different team cultures and coaching styles.
• Smith’s shown he can adapt to different roles, levels of performance, and team vibes—something spring camps always seem to value.

Impact on spring training and roster flexibility

Adding Dominic Smith as a non-roster invitee shows the Braves want to expand competition this spring while keeping Olson’s spot at first base secure. Smith’s versatility lets the Braves try out different lineups and defensive setups without using up a 40-man roster spot right away.

Bench depth and lineup versatility

• Non-roster invites like Smith keep the roster flexible. The Braves get to see how he fares against a wide range of spring opponents and pitchers.
• He can play first base, left field, or even step in as a DH. That’s handy when Olson needs a break or runs into a tough lefty on the mound.
• Smith brings experience and some clubhouse leadership. That could help younger players get up to speed during spring and those early, sometimes bumpy, weeks of the season.
• From a strategy angle, this move feels like smart risk management. The Braves want depth, but they’re not looking to mess with roster stability.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Braves give D. Smith non-roster invite to camp