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Maryville Today
By the People, for the People
Transfer RHP Braden Smith Emerges as Key Piece of UCF Rotation
The former All-Region starter at Maryville looks to make an impact as UCF opens the 2026 baseball season in the Big 12.
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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Transfer right-hander Braden Smith, who earned All-Region honors at Maryville and served as a Friday night starter, is now competing for a weekend role as the University of Central Florida Knights prepare to open the 2026 baseball season.
Why it matters
Smith's arrival at UCF provides the team with an experienced and talented pitcher who can contribute to the starting rotation as the Knights transition to the Big 12 conference. His success at the Division II level suggests he has the potential to make an immediate impact at the Division I level.
The details
After a standout career at Maryville, where he was named an All-Region starter, Braden Smith has transferred to UCF and is now competing for a spot in the Knights' weekend rotation as they prepare for the 2026 season. The Illinois native will look to build on his previous success and help UCF navigate its first season in the Big 12 conference.
- UCF is set to open the 2026 baseball season.
The players
Braden Smith
A transfer right-handed pitcher who earned All-Region honors at Maryville and is now competing for a weekend role in the UCF rotation.
University of Central Florida Knights
The Division I baseball team that is transitioning to the Big 12 conference for the 2026 season.
The takeaway
Braden Smith's arrival at UCF provides the Knights with an experienced and talented pitcher who can contribute to the starting rotation as the team transitions to the highly competitive Big 12 conference. His success at the Division II level suggests he has the potential to make an immediate impact at the Division I level.
