Braves' Dominic Smith scripting dramatic MLB first-half story
A surprise addition to Atlanta's Opening Day roster, the unsung player endured an emotional spring to experience a historic start to the regular season.
Braves' Dominic Smith scripting dramatic MLB first-half story originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The 2026 story arc of Atlanta Braves designated hitter Dominic Smith is becoming increasingly dramatic.
An offseason free agent, Smith's opening act included signing a minor-league deal with the Braves and, despite his mother suffering from and eventually succumbing to cancer, he earned a spot on the Opening Day roster. From there, the plot continued to be centered on the 10-year veteran's four-week MLB resurgence. The rising action has yet to hit a lull.
In his first game with the Braves, Smith connected on a walk-off grand slam March 28, becoming the first MLB player to accomplish the feat during a debut with his new team. The moment came nearly two weeks after his mother's passing . Smith's narrative added another chapter last Tuesday.
With two outs in the bottom of the eighth inning, Smith connected on a three-run double, sparking a 6-5 win over the Miami Marlins at Truist Park. "I'm taking it one day at a time, one moment at a time and this team hs welcomed me with open arms from day one," Smith said, as reported by SI. com .