No Prospect List, No Problem: Smith Ready to Prove He’s a No. 1 Starter

Twelve months ago, Shane Smith was battling for a roster spot in spring training camp.

The 24-year-old right-hander entered camp riding the momentum of a strong 2024 season in the Milwaukee Brewers’ farm system. Smith earned a promotion to Triple-A after appearing in 27 games with the Brewers’ Double-A affiliate, the Biloxi Shuckers, where he posted a 3.08 ERA.

Over 94.1 innings that season, Smith struck out 113 batters while issuing just 29 walks, numbers that put him on the cusp of a promotion to the big leagues.