Braves Sign Former Mets Standout Dominic Smith

The Atlanta Braves have agreed to a one-year minor league contract with ex-Mets slugger Dominic Smith ahead of spring training.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Atlanta Braves have reportedly signed former New York Mets standout Dominic Smith to a one-year minor league contract. Smith, 30, had several productive seasons with the Mets from 2017-2022, including finishing 20th in National League MVP voting in 2020 after hitting .316/.377/.616 in the shortened season. He most recently played for the San Francisco Giants in 2025, hitting .284/.333/.417. The left-handed hitting Smith could provide a valuable bench option for the Braves, who have a crowded outfield and first base situation.

Why it matters

Adding a proven hitter like Dominic Smith gives the Braves more depth and flexibility off the bench, especially against right-handed pitching where Smith has historically excelled. While he likely won't be a starter, Smith's versatility to play first base and the outfield could make him a valuable role player for the Braves as they look to defend their National League East title.

The details

Smith, who has played for the Mets and Giants in his MLB career, signed a one-year minor league contract with the Braves. He will compete for a bench role this spring, as the Braves have their starting first baseman (Matt Olson) and outfield (Ronald Acuna Jr., Michael Harris II, Mike Yastrzemski) already set. Smith's left-handed bat and ability to play multiple positions could make him an appealing option off the bench, especially against right-handed pitching where he has had success.

  • The Braves and Smith agreed to the contract on February 17, 2026, just before the start of spring training.

The players

Dominic Smith

A 30-year-old left-handed hitting first baseman/outfielder who spent the majority of his MLB career with the New York Mets from 2017-2022, including a standout 2020 season where he finished 20th in NL MVP voting.

Matt Olson

The Braves' starting first baseman, acquired in a trade from the Oakland A's prior to the 2022 season.

Ronald Acuna Jr.

The Braves' star outfielder and one of the best all-around players in baseball.

Michael Harris II

The Braves' young center fielder who burst onto the scene in 2022 and won the NL Rookie of the Year award.

Mike Yastrzemski

The Braves' starting left fielder, acquired in a trade with the San Francisco Giants prior to the 2026 season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Having a left-handed hitter like Smith on the bench may appeal to the Braves. He could also start games when players need days off.”

— Joey Mistretta, Author (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

Smith will need a strong performance in spring training to earn a spot on the Braves' MLB roster out of camp. The Braves have a crowded roster, so Smith will have to prove he can provide value as a bench bat and versatile defender.

The takeaway

The Braves are adding veteran depth and flexibility to their roster by signing Dominic Smith to a minor league deal. While he likely won't be a starter, Smith's left-handed bat and ability to play multiple positions could make him a valuable role player off the bench as the Braves look to defend their division title.