TL1 Northwest Arkansas Naturals

Will Smith Is TL Player of the Month

Published on September 1, 2011 under Texas League (TL1)
Northwest Arkansas Naturals News Release


SPRINGDALE, AR - Naturals' starting pitcher Will Smith was named as the Topps' Texas League Player of the Month, Texas League President Tom Kayser announced Thursday.

Smith made six starts in the month, posting a 4-1 record with a 1.91 ERA. He could easily have won all six starts, but received one run of support in the no-decision and no run support in the loss. On Monday, August 8th, facing former teammate Matt Shoemaker of the Travelers - the same matchup of the July 19th Naturals' no-hitter at North Little Rock - Smith and Shoemaker went toe-to-toe again as Smith allowed no runs in eight innings but ended up with a no-decision as the Naturals fell 2-1 in 10 innings. Last Thursday, Smith pitched a complete game, going eight innings, but the Naturals lost 1-0 at Springfield.

In six starts during the month, Smith, a 22-year old left-hander from Newnan, GA, pitched 42 1/3 innings, struck out 37, allowed just 31 hits and nine walks, giving him a 0.94 WHIP for the month. His 1.91 ERA was the best among all starting pitchers in the month. He also limited Texas League batters to a .204 batting average during his six August starts.

Acquired last July by the Kansas City Royals in a trade that sent major league third baseman Alberto Callaspo to the Angels, Smith has been hot since mid-season, going 10-3 since his start on June 16th. He also has been the most durable, reliable starter in the league, pacing the circuit in innings pitched.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark, located in Springdale. Visit our website, nwanaturals.com, for information on season tickets and ticket plans.

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