Smith Joins Rotation in Visalia

July 10, 2010 - Midwest League (MWL1)
South Bend Silver Hawks News Release

South Bend, IN - In conjunction with the Arizona Diamondbacks, the South Bend Silver Hawks have announced that starting pitcher Eric Smith has been promoted to high-A Visalia. Additionally, RHP Scottie Allen has been activated from the disabled list.

Smith becomes the fourth member of the Opening Day starting rotation that has been promoted this season, joining Chase Anderson, Charles Brewer, and Dan Taylor.

Smith was a second round pick in June of 2009 from the University of Rhode Island - the highest draft pick ever in the school's history. After starting his career in rookie ball with Missoula, Smith was promoted to South Bend at the end of the 2009 season and had remained with the Silver Hawks since.

Featuring a heavy sinker, Smith was 5-5 with a 3.63 ERA in 16 starts for South Bend this season. He struck out 65 and walked 32 in 86.2 innings on the hill. Earlier this year, Smith threw 23.1 consecutive scoreless innings which still ranks as the team high for 2010. He was selected to the Midwest League All-Star team but did not pitch in the game.

Allen has been on the disabled list since July 2nd with a strained left oblique muscle. Just one week past his 19th birthday, Allen is the youngest pitcher on the Silver Hawks roster. He is 3-2 with a 4.93 ERA in eight starts this season.

The South Bend roster currently stands at 25 active players plus three on the disabled list. The Midwest League allows for 25 active players.

The Silver Hawks take on the Fort Wayne TinCaps tonight at 7:05 PM Eastern Time at Parkview Field. For more information about the Silver Hawks or to purchase tickets, please visit www.silverhawks.com.

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