Veteran Non-Roster Invitee a Potential DH Solution for Braves

Dominic Smith could fill a key role in the Braves' lineup against right-handed pitchers.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Atlanta Braves have a veteran non-roster invitee in Dominic Smith who could provide a boost to their lineup against right-handed pitchers. With the loss of Jurickson Profar, the Braves need to figure out their DH plans, and Smith's respectable career numbers against righties make him a potential solution.

Why it matters

The Braves are looking to fill a gap in their lineup after the departure of Profar, who was expected to platoon at DH against right-handers. Smith's ability to hit righties could make him a valuable addition to the team's roster.

The details

Smith has a career .250 batting average and .731 OPS against right-handed pitchers, with 60 of his 69 career home runs coming against them. He has significant experience playing in the outfield, which could allow the Braves to get Mike Yastrzemski's bat in the lineup while giving him a break from the field.

  • The Braves are currently in spring training, evaluating their options for the DH role.

The players

Dominic Smith

A veteran non-roster invitee to the Braves' spring training camp who could provide a right-handed power bat to complement the team's lineup.

Jurickson Profar

A former Braves player who was expected to platoon at DH against right-handed pitchers, but has since departed the team.

Mike Yastrzemski

A Braves outfielder who was expected to platoon with Profar at DH against right-handers.

Walt Weiss

The manager of the Atlanta Braves.

Pete Alonso

The first baseman for the New York Mets, where Smith spent the majority of his career.

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What’s next

Smith still has to earn a spot on the Braves' roster with a strong performance in the remainder of spring training.

The takeaway

The Braves have an in-house option in Dominic Smith who could provide a valuable right-handed power bat to their lineup, especially against right-handed pitchers. His experience in the outfield also gives the team flexibility in how they construct their lineup.