Righthander Chris Smith, the Red Sox’ fourth-round draft pick in 2002 who has battled injuries throughout his career, became the 35th former Lowell Spinner to play in the major leagues today when he relieved struggling starter Daisuke Matsuzaka in the second inning against the Cardinals.
Taking over with the bases loaded, nobody out, and the Cardinals already leading 4-0, Smith fanned the first batter he faced, Rick Ankiel, on three pitches, all changeups. But the next batter, Troy Glaus, jumped on a 1-and-0 curveball from Smith and lined it into the Monster Seats for a grand slam, vaulting the Cardinals into an 8-0 lead. Three of those runs were charged to Matsuaka.
Smith was with the Red Sox for a couple of days in May but did not get to pitch before being sent back to Pawtucket. He had been with the Red Sox for four days this time before finally making his debut.
Smith had made the transition from a starter/long reliever to a closer at Pawtucket this season. He was 1-2 with 8 saves and a 1.52 ERA in 22 games for the PawSox.
Smith was 3-3 with a 4.13 ERA in 14 starts for the Spinners in 2002.
Smith becomes the third ex-Spinner to make his ML debut in 2008. Jed Lowrie (2005) and Justin Masterson (2006) are the others.
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