MLB playoffs: Ranking the top 5 most important players for Guardians in ALDS vs. Tigers
Smith, along with Tim Herrin and Hunter Gaddis, enable the Guardians to attack key situations with a proactive approach rather than having to leave the starting pitcher in a few batters too long. Clase is arguably the best pitcher in baseball inning-by-inning, but Smith allows the bullpen to operate as it has all year.