Meet Seth Smith: The Baseball Player Who Juggled Football Too

Seth Smith, a name that might not ring a bell for everyone, is a former professional baseball player who had quite the journey. Born on September 30, 1982, in the charming city of Jackson, Mississippi, Smith showcased his athletic prowess early on. Not only did he swing a bat, but he also threw a football, serving as a backup quarterback to none other than Eli Manning while at the University of Mississippi. Talk about multitasking! 🏈

From High School to the Big Leagues

Smith's baseball journey began at Hillcrest Christian School, where his talent was undeniable. He later took his skills to the University of Mississippi, playing for the Ole Miss Rebels baseball team from 2002 to 2004. During this time, he was not just hitting home runs but also keeping his cool as Manning's backup. Imagine the locker room banter! “Hey Eli, can you throw me a pass while I’m at bat?”

The Draft and MLB Debut

In 2004, the Colorado Rockies saw potential in Smith and drafted him in the second round of the MLB June Amateur Draft. After several years of hard work and dedication, he made his MLB debut on September 16, 2007, against the Florida Marlins. Unfortunately, it wasn't a fairy tale start; he went 0-for-2 in that game. But fear not! Just five days later, he snagged his first hit—an infield single in a nail-biting extra-innings win over the San Diego Padres. Talk about a comeback! ⚾

Career Highlights

Smith’s career spanned several teams, including the Rockies, Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, and the New York Mets. He had his share of ups and downs, but his time with the Rockies is particularly noteworthy. He was known for his ability to hit well against left-handed pitchers, which made him a valuable asset. In 2012, he even recorded a career-high 20 home runs. Not bad for a guy who started as a backup quarterback!

Life After Baseball

After hanging up his cleats, Smith transitioned into life beyond the diamond. While he may not be hitting home runs anymore, he’s likely still hitting the gym. Athletes often find ways to stay active, whether it's coaching, working in sports management, or just trying to keep up with their kids. Who knows, maybe he’s even teaching them how to throw a perfect spiral!

Final Thoughts

Seth Smith's journey from a Mississippi high school to the MLB is a testament to hard work, adaptability, and a bit of humor along the way. He might not be a household name, but for those who followed his career, he certainly made his mark. So, the next time you’re watching a game, remember that behind every player is a story worth telling—even if it includes a few missed hits and a backup quarterback gig!