Jake Smolinski went 2 for 3 in the Rangers 4-2 win over the Yankees Monday night, giving him a .389/.450/.472 slash line in his first eleven major league games. He is 14 for 36 with no home runs and ten strikeouts, meaning his BABIP is an extremely high .538. His forte in his long minor league career was getting on base. His batting average was middling, he didn’t strike out at a high rate, and he didn’t hit for much power (mostly doubles). He started his career as a middle infielder, moved to the outfield, and DHs some, indicating his defense was not that good. His major league profile looks more like someone who swings hard and makes great contact. Almost 40% of his balls in play so far have been line drives.

This won’t last, of course. MLB pitchers tend to test rookies with fastballs until it’s obvious the player can handle the pitch. Smolinski, so far, handled them well. The change against him will come sooner than later. It is nice to see a career minor leaguer do well in his chance at the show.