Burch Smith
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MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Oct 31 2024Smith elected free agency Thursday, Matt Weyrich of The Baltimore Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith cleared waivers after the Orioles removed him from their 40-man roster, but he will look for a job elsewhere rather than accepting an outright assignment. The righty collected a 4.95 ERA and 46:12 K:BB over 56.1 innings between the Marlins and Orioles this season.
Sep 20 2024The Orioles placed Smith on the 15-day injured list Friday due to a groin strain, Andy Kostka of TheBaltimoreBanner.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will be forced to sit for the rest of the regular season, and it's unclear whether the severity of the groin strain will keep him out of action throughout Baltimore's postseason run. Smith joined the Orioles in late June after being DFA'd and subsequently released by the Marlins. Working out of Baltimore's bullpen, Smith has posted a 5.74 ERA and 1.05 WHIP across 26.2 innings. Southpaw reliever Danny Coulombe (elbow) was activated from the 60-day IL in a corresponding move.
Aug 26 2024Smith (4-1) took the loss Sunday versus the Astros, allowing two runs on two hits and striking out two over one inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alex Bregman and Yainer Diaz went back-to-back on consecutive pitches in the seventh inning, and the Orioles weren't able to bounce back, leaving Smith with his first loss of the year. Smith was pretty effective after initially joining the Orioles in mid-July, but he's now been on the hook for multiple runs in three of his last four appearances. Since Aug. 10, he's allowed 10 runs (nine earned), including five home runs, over seven innings. Smith is now at a 4.84 ERA, 1.39 WHIP and 41:11 K:BB overall 48.1 innings between Baltimore and Miami this year.
Aug 10 2024Smith (4-0) allowed a run on one hit over one inning but earned the win Saturday over the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith gave up a game-tying solo home run to Jose Caballero in the seventh inning, but the Orioles retook the lead in the eighth and held on. This was Smith's second appearance in a row with the win, and he's added two holds despite allowing two runs over 4.1 innings in August. For the year, the right-hander has a 3.83 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 38:11 K:BB over 42.1 innings between the Orioles and the Marlins. Smith is unlikely to see a lot of high-leverage work, but he could be called on in tight spots when the bullpen is thin.
Aug 8 2024Smith (3-0) earned the win Wednesday over the Blue Jays, striking out two over a perfect inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has maintained a 2.31 ERA, 0.77 WHIP and 15:2 K:BB over 11.2 innings since he first joined the Orioles' big-league roster in mid-July. The right-hander has provided some stability to address one of Baltimore's weak spots. Smith has also picked up two holds since the start of August, which suggests he's moving up the leverage ladder. For the season, he has a 3.70 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 38:11 K:BB over 41.1 innings between Baltimore and Miami, but it's clear he's more comfortable with his current team than he was with his previous one.
Jul 11 2024The Orioles selected Smith's contract from Triple-A Norfolk on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll join the Baltimore bullpen as a replacement for right-hander Dillon Tate, who was optioned to Norfolk in a corresponding move. Though he opened the season as a member of the Miami bullpen, Smith was cut in June after he posted a 4.25 ERA and 1.62 WHIP in 29.2 innings. He quickly caught on with the Orioles on a minor-league deal and turned in a pair of scoreless appearances with Norfolk before getting the call back to the majors.
Jun 28 2024Smith signed a minor-league contract with the Orioles on Friday, Rich Dubroff of BaltimoreBaseball.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was released by the Marlins last week and didn't take long to latch on with a new organization. Smith posted a 4.25 ERA, 1.62 WHIP and 23:9 K:BB over 29.2 innings for Miami this season, and he'll likely fill a low-leverage relief role if he gets called up by Baltimore.
Jun 14 2024The Marlins designated Smith for assignment Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was acquired from the Rays in late March and posted a 4.25 ERA, 1.62 WHIP and 23:9 K:BB over 29.2 innings for the Marlins. Smith could head to Triple-A Jacksonville if he passes through waivers unclaimed.
May 3 2024Smith (1-0) picked up the win Thursday, striking out two in a perfect 10th inning during the Marlins' victory over the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Brenton Doyle led off the frame with a sacrifice bunt to put the phantom runner on third base, but Smith fanned Ryan McMahon and Elehuris Montero to deny Colorado a run. The right-hander then got rewarded when Miami walked it off in the bottom of the inning. Smith has seen little high-leverage work this season, adding only one hold to his ledger in 14 appearances, and he sports a 3.31 ERA, 1.59 WHIP and 12:7 K:BB through 16.1 innings.
Mar 27 2024The Marlins acquired Smith from the Rays on Wednesday in exchange for cash considerations and selected Smith's contract from Triple-A Jacksonville, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith exercised the upward mobility clause in his minor-league deal with Tampa Bay. The 33-year-old will appear in the majors for the first time since 2021, assuming he gets into a game. Smith holds a career 6.03 ERA over 102 appearances (13 starts) across parts of five major-league seasons. He figures to operate in long relief in Miami.
Dec 18 2022Smith agreed to a contract with the Hanwha Eagles of the Korean Baseball Organization on Sunday, Dan Kurtz of MyKBO.net reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith had a 5.40 ERA across 43.1 innings for the A's last season before he was removed from the 40-man roster in September. The 32-year-old has a 6.03 ERA in 102 appearances during his big-league career and will now test his luck overseas.
Sep 14 2021Smith was designated for assignment by the Athletics on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith recorded an unimpressive 5.40 ERA in 43.1 innings of relief for the Athletics, striking out just 14.9 percent of opposing batters. As a 31-year-old with a career 6.03 ERA at the highest level, he's unlikely to get claimed off waivers. Domingo Acevedo's contract was selected to fill Smith's place in the bullpen.
Aug 28 2021Smith allowed three earned runs on five hits over one inning in a loss to the Yankees on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran reliever has now given up a total of eight earned runs in two of his last three trips to the mound, a reminder of why he's been used sparingly since the beginning of July (19.1 innings over 10 appearances). Smith has pitched to a 5.12 ERA and 1.40 WHIP over that span, a far cry from the career-best 2.25 and 0.67 figures he posted in those respective categories in 2020.
Jul 28 2021Smith fired two scoreless innings in a loss to the Padres on Tuesday, allowing two hits and a walk while recording a strikeout. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran reliever saw his first game action since July 6 and delivered his second consecutive scoreless appearance. Smith's sparse usage could be a reflection of his highly inconsistent season, one that's seen him allow multiple runs in five of 21 appearances on his way to a 5.06 ERA.
Jul 14 2021Smith, who owns a 1-1 record, 5.94 ERA and 1.34 WHIP across 24.2 innings, has logged just two appearances since June 26 as the second half of the season begins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran reliever has been a lot more hittable this season than during an impressive six-appearance debut stint with the Athletics in 2020, and the more frequent stumbles may be starting to cost him some opportunities. Smith has offered some modest fantasy value in deeper formats by notching four holds, but he's also given up multiple earned runs in five appearances and has seen a precipitous drop in strikeout rate from last year's 29.5 percent to 17.1 percent.
Jun 26 2021Smith (1-1) blew the save and took the loss in Saturday's 6-5 defeat at the hands of the Giants, allowing two runs (one earned) on two hits while recording one out. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith entered in the bottom of the tenth to protect a one-run lead and induced a Donovan Solano lineout to start the frame, but then surrendered a Steven Duggar single and Curt Casali double to lose the game for Oakland. He's now allowed multiple runs in three of his last five appearances and owns a high 5.82 ERA.
Jun 15 2021Smith allowed four earned runs on three hits and a walk over one inning in a win over the Angels on Monday. He also hit a batter and recorded a strikeout. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith created plenty of trouble for himself during his one frame, allowing the Angels to mount a modest comeback from an 8-1 deficit. The stumble was the latest hiccup in what's turning into a rocky season for Smith, as he's now pitched to a 9.64 ERA, 1.82 WHIP and 1.9 HR/9 across 9.1 innings in his last eight appearances.
May 31 2021Smith fired a scoreless seventh inning in a loss to the Angels on Sunday, allowing a hit and a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran reliever now has back-to-back scoreless appearances after giving up four earned runs over four innings across the three outings immediately preceding the current stretch. Smith retains some modest value in formats that count holds, as he's amassed three of them while also pitching to an impressive 2.93 ERA and 1.04 WHIP across 15.1 innings.
May 10 2021Smith (groin), reinstated from the injured list Saturday, fired two perfect innings during which he recorded two strikeouts in a loss to the Rays on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander encouragingly got his six outs on just 23 pitches, making it a highly successful return after nearly a month on the injured list. Smith should line up for some consistent later-inning work moving forward and now sports a 1.80 ERA and 0.80 WHIP through five innings (three appearances).
May 8 2021Smith (groin) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Saturday, Martin Gallegos of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith made a rehab appearance for Triple-A Las Vegas on Thursday and allowed a run on two hits while striking out two in 1.1 innings. He'll now return to the major-league bullpen after Mike Fiers (elbow) was placed on the injured list in a corresponding move.
May 7 2021Smith (groin) allowed an earned run on two hits over 1.1 innings in a rehab appearance for Triple-A Las Vegas against Sacramento on Thursday. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith logged a relatively solid workload of 31 pitches, suggesting he's nearing a return to full health after more than a month on the shelf. The right-hander made two appearances for the Athletics before going on the injured list April 6, allowing an earned run on three hits over three innings across two appearances. Martin Gallegos of MLB.com reports Smith may be on the verge of activation, with manager Bob Melvin commenting Friday he could be activated "pretty soon."
May 1 2021Smith (groin) is scheduled to throw two innings in a simulated game Saturday, Matt Kawahara of the San Francisco Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was placed on the 10-day injured list due to a right groin strain April 6, but he's been running and playing long toss in recent weeks. His two-inning sim game Sunday will be a significant step in his recovery, although it's not yet clear when Smith will be able to return to the major-league bullpen.
Apr 17 2021Smith (groin) has been throwing from 100 feet, Alex Coffey of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has been sidelined since April 6 due to a strained right groin. While manager Bob Melvin expects that Smith will be out "for a while" due to the injury, the right-hander has progressed to running and playing long toss recently. Melvin said that he feels as though Smith is starting to get slightly closer to a return, but he still doesn't have a timetable to return to game action.
Apr 6 2021Smith was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with a strained right groin. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He gave up one run while striking out one over three innings in his first two appearances of the season. Jordan Weems was promoted to take Smith's spot in the bullpen. Manager Bob Melvin said Smith will be out "for a while" with the injury, Shayna Rubin of The San Jose Mercury News reports.
Mar 29 2021Smith, who owns a 6.48 ERA across 8.1 Cactus League innings, has made the Opening Day roster, Justice delos Santos of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Bob Melvin made the announcement that Smith won the final bullpen spot Monday morning, a few hours after the veteran put together his third scoreless relief effort of spring. Smith was touched up for multiple earned runs on two other occasions during Cactus League play and allowed a .351 average to opposing batters overall, but he'll look to regain the consistency that made him a value relief option in 2020 -- over the 12 innings covering his six appearances last season, Smith posted a 2.25 ERA, 0.67 WHIP and 13:1 K:BB.
Feb 20 2021Smith (forearm) will throw a bullpen session Saturday, Shayna Rubin of The San Jose Mercury News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith missed the second half of the 2020 season due to a forearm strain, but he's now healthy to begin spring training, Matt Kawahara of the Laredo Morning Times reports. He reportedly threw a bullpen session on the first day of camp and will do so again Saturday. Smith recorded a 2.25 ERA and 0.67 WHIP over 12 innings last season.
Dec 1 2020Smith (forearm) signed a one-year, $705,000 deal with the A's on Tuesday, avoiding arbitration, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Given that he ended the year on the shelf with a forearm strain, this is an encouraging sign, as the A's may have non-tendered Smith if they thought the injury would affect his availability for 2021. He logged a 2.25 ERA, 0.67 WHIP and 13 strikeouts in 12 innings (six appearances) last season.
Aug 20 2020Manager Bob Melvin said Thursday that it will be tough for Smith (forearm) to return this season, Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Athletics announced Monday that Smith would be shut down for two weeks even though an MRI didn't reveal any structural damage. Melvin's update cast some doubt as to whether he'll be able to get ready in time to return for the end of the season. More clarity surrounding the situation could come into focus once the right-hander is able to resume throwing.
Aug 17 2020Smith (forearm) won't throw for another two weeks, Martin Gallegos of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was placed on the 10-day injured list Sunday with a forearm injury, and while his MRI showed no ligament damage, the Athletics will shut him down for at least the next 14 days. A timeline for his return should become more clear once he gets the green light to begin a throwing program.
Aug 16 2020The Athletics placed Smith (forearm) on the 10-day injured list Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Oakland hasn't provided a timeline for Smith to return from the injury, which can often be a precursor to Tommy John surgery. James Kaprielian was recalled from the Athletics' alternate site and will join the bullpen as a replacement for Smith, who had posted a tidy 2.25 ERA and 0.67 WHIP to go with 13 strikeouts in 12 innings over six appearances.
Aug 15 2020Smith suffered a forearm strain Saturday and is expected to head to the injured list, Martin Gallegos of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith struggled in his outing Saturday against San Francisco, allowing three runs in 1.2 innings, and the injury was seemingly part of the problem. He'll undergo an MRI on Monday, at which point his recovery timeline will become clearer.
Aug 9 2020Smith allowed one hit over three scoreless innings to earn the save in Sunday's 7-2 win over the Astros. He struck out four and did not issue a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has been one of the stories of the season so far for Oakland, as he has excelled to the tune of 10 strikeouts and a 0.48 WHIP over 10.1 scoreless innings, earning two wins and now a save. The right-hander was DFA'd by the Giants in February and traded to the A's for cash considerations. He's been with six different big-league organizations.
Aug 6 2020Smith fired 3.1 perfect innings in a win over the Rangers on Wednesday, recording four strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith recorded 10 outs on just 33 pitches, 24 of which he got into the strike zone. The veteran reliever also induced six swinging strikes, and his ability to log multiple quality innings when a starter struggles along the lines of how Sean Manaea did Wednesday makes him an invaluable asset for manager Bob Melvin. Factoring in Wednesday's effort, Smith has now fired 7.1 scoreless frames while allowing just three hits and generating a 6:1 K:BB over four appearances.
Jul 28 2020Smith (2-0) was credited with the victory in a win over the Angels on Monday, allowing one hit over two scoreless innings and recording one strikeout. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The offseason acquisition from across the bay in San Francisco has been nearly perfect early, recording nine outs over a modest 39 pitches across his first two appearances. Smith's ability to work multiple innings -- he started 13 games for the Padres and Royals in 2013 and 2018, respectively, and 75 games during his minor-league career -- already proved valuable Monday, and he could be in for similar usage early in the season as starters' arms are built up.
Jul 24 2020Smith (1-0) earned the win Friday after holding the Angels to one hit and a walk across one inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander came into the 10th inning with the score tied, 3-3. Fortunately, he was able to hold the Angels in place to pick up the win after Matt Olson delivered a walk-off grand slam in the bottom of the frame. Smith was solid during spring training, posting a 2.57 ERA and 0.57 WHIP across seven innings.
Jul 15 2020Smith recently received praise from both manager Bob Melvin and teammate Franklin Barreto for his work in summer camp, Alex Coffey of The Athletic reports. "He has a good life on his fastball, good command, and he's been very aggressive so far," Barreto said. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith similarly impressed during spring training, during which he posted a 2.57 ERA and 0.57 WHIP across seven innings over four appearances. The February trade acquisition from the Giants also displayed excellent control (9:0 K:BB), and Smith's ability to apparently carry that momentum to summer camp certainly helps his case. However, Martin Gallegos of MLB.com notes that Smith is still a likely "long shot" to make the initial 30-man roster, but that continued strong showings from the right-hander will put him in position to quickly be summoned whenever some bullpen reinforcements are needed during the season.
Apr 6 2020Smith posted a 2.57 ERA and 0.57 WHIP across seven innings over four Cactus League appearances before spring training was suspended. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith got plenty of work in -- 45 pitches overall -- before play was paused following his arrival via trade from the Giants on Feb. 15. In addition to the right-hander's impressive numbers cited above, Smith added a sparkling 9:0 K:BB and one hold during his quartet of appearances. Martin Gallegos of MLB.com reported just before spring training was suspended March 12 that Smith was likely in a battle with fellow right-hander J.B. Wendelken for a bullpen spot, but both players could have a strong chance to stick with the increasing likelihood rosters are expanded to 29 players to start the campaign.
Feb 15 2020Smith was traded from the Giants to the Athletics on Saturday in exchange for cash considerations, Martin Gallegos of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was designated for assignment by the Giants on Monday, but he'll find a new home with the Athletics. The right-hander struggled over 21.1 innings in the majors last season, posting a 5.48 ERA and a 20:14 K:BB during time with the Brewers and Giants.
Feb 10 2020Smith was designated for assignment by the Giants on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith threw 21.1 innings for the Brewers and Giants last season, posting an unimpressive 5.48 ERA. That figure was still the best of his three big-league seasons, making him an unlikely candidate to be claimed off waivers.
Sep 1 2019Smith was recalled from Triple-A Sacramento on Sunday.
Aug 12 2019The Giants claimed Smith off waivers from the Brewers on Monday, Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.
Aug 9 2019Smith was designated for assignment Friday.
Jul 24 2019The Brewers optioned<\/a> Smith to Triple-A San Antonio on Wednesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 22 2019Smith was recalled from Triple-A San Antonio<\/a> on Monday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 20 2019Smith was optioned to Triple-A San Antonio<\/a> on Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 15 2019Smith was recalled from Triple-A San Antonio<\/a> on Monday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 7 2019The Brewers optioned<\/a> Smith to Triple-A San Antonio on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 6 2019Smith was recalled from Triple-A San Antonio<\/a> on Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 12 2019The Brewers optioned Smith to Triple-A San Antonio on Sunday, Adam McCalvy of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 8 2019Smith tossed two perfect innings of relief in his Brewers debut on Tuesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 24 2018Smith (1-1) got the win Tuesday, allowing two runs on one hit and two walks while striking out six over 6.1 innings against the Tigers.Smith was in total command, inducing 17 swinging strikes while taking a one-hitter into the seventh inning. The only trouble he ran into all night came in his final frame, as he walked the final two batters he faced before seeing both runs come around to score against the bullpen. The 28-year-old has made three starts this year, and this was the first time he lasted more than 3.1 innings so Tuesday's terrific outing comes as a bit of a surprise. He'll draw a tougher matchup next time out, Sunday against the Yankees.
Jul 15 2018Smith (0-1) tossed two innings and took the loss Sunday, yielding two runs on three hits while striking out two in the 10-1 loss to the White Sox.Smith has started two games this season, allowing six runs in just 5.1 innings. His ERA was bumped to 5.98 alongside a 45:22 K:BB in 43.2 innings on the year. If Smith gets another look in the rotation, he should take the mound at home against Detroit next Tuesday.
Jul 14 2018Smith will likely start Sunday's game against the White Sox, Rustin Dodd of The Athletic Kansas City reports.Smith will be brought back early after being pulled from Wednesday's outing, as he lasted just 3.1 innings. Ned Yost stated Smith will be limited to 50 pitches or around three innings. The Royals want to make sure he's doesn't go nearly two weeks without throwing due to the All-Star break.
Jul 11 2018Smith allowed four runs on seven hits and a walk while striking out four over 3.1 innings in Wednesday's loss to the Twins. He did not factor into the decision.Smith was staked out to a three run lead before even taking the hill in the bottom of the first inning, but he eventually gave it all back and ended up recording just 10 outs. The 28-year-old had worked exclusively out of the bullpen prior to Wednesday's outing, so he likely wouldn't have been stretched out much further than the 71 pitches he threw regardless of performance. With a 5.83 ERA and 1.61 WHIP over 41.2 innings, it's not immediately clear if Smith will get another turn through the rotation or return to a bullpen role going forward.
Jul 8 2018Smith will move from the bullpen into the rotation and start Wednesday's game against the Twins, Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com reports.Smith, who has supplied a 5.40 ERA and 39:21 K:BB across 38.1 innings this season, will join the rotation in place of the struggling Jason Hammel. The Rule 5 pick had previously been developed as as starter with the Padres and made seven starts with the big club in 2013 before his development track changed a year later, when he required Tommy John surgery. Smith's results out of the bullpen this season don't seemingly portend success as he heads back to the rotation, though it's worth noting he turned in one of his best outings of the season Friday against the Red Sox while working in long relief of Hammel. He tossed a season-high four scoreless innings out of the bullpen, limiting Boston to two hits and no walks while striking out three.
Dec 14 2017Smith was selected by the Mets with the sixth pick in the Rule 5 draft Thursday and then dealt to the Royals for cash considerations, Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com reports.The 27-year-old righty reached the majors with the Padres back in 2013, but then washed out of pro ball after needing Tommy John surgery in 2015. However, he made a triumphant return in 2017, reaching Triple-A, where he logged a 1.65 ERA, 0.80 WHIP and 19 strikeouts in 16.1 innings. He has a good shot to contribute out of the Royals' bullpen this season, and perhaps even in the rotation. They will need to keep him on the active roster all season, otherwise he will be exposed to waivers and offered back to the Rays.
Apr 8 2015Smith (elbow) was recalled and placed on the 60-day disabled list Wednesday, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.Smith will undergo Tommy John surgery, ending his 2015 campaign. The Rays moved him to the 60-day DL to open up a 40-man roster spot for Allan Dykstra, who had his contract selected to replace James Loney on the 25-man roster.
Mar 20 2015Smith is still believed to be in the Rays' early-season plans, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.The 24-year-old right-hander was optioned to Triple-A Durham on Friday, seemingly narrowing the field for the Rays' open rotation spots, but Smith can return when the team puts a player on the DL. It seems the move was done primarily to get Smith more innings, and to open up more innings for the likes of Nate Karns, Matt Andriese, Mike Montgomery and Everett Teaford. Smith could still be a temporary rotation option with Drew Smyly (shoulder), Alex Cobb (forearm) and Alex Colome (illness) all out to start the year.
Mar 20 2015Smith was optioned to Triple-A Durham on Friday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Smith appeared to have a clear path to a temporary rotation spot after Drew Smyly, Alex Cobb and Alex Colome all suffered injuries in the initial weeks of spring training, but evidently his six-run implosion Friday against Toronto (3.2 innings) did him in. Thus, the competition for the available spots in the Opening Day rotation is now down to Nate Karns, Matt Andriese, Mike Montgomery and Everett Teaford.
Mar 18 2015Smith will likely open the season in the Rays' rotation due the absence of Drew Smyly, Alex Cobb, and Alex Colome, the Tampa Tribune reports.While all three ailing pitchers may return in April, Smith is positioned to get at least a couple of turns as a temporary member of the Tampa Bay rotation. Smith will be joined by Nate Karns and Matt Andriese as the first options tasked with filling in, while a strong showing could prolong the opportunity for at least one of the replacements if Smyly, Cobb, or Colome suffer a setback.
Mar 11 2015Smith worked three innings in Tuesday's start versus the Pirates, allowing just one earned run on three hits and a walk while notching two strikeouts.Smith threw 20 pitches in Tuesday's outing, finding the zone with 15 of them. With four solid frames under his belt so far this spring, the right-handed hurler has placed himself in the competition, along with Nate Karns and Alex Colome, for the fifth spot in the Rays' rotation heading into the regular season.
Dec 17 2014Smith (forearm) was traded to the Rays on Wednesday as part of a three-team deal, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports.Smith's 2014 campaign was largely limited due to forearm issues, as he was only able to log 20 innings at the minor league level. He's expected to be ready to go by the start of the 2015 season, however, and will compete to earn a major league roster spot during spring training. If the right-hander is able to crack the Opening Day roster, he'll likely serve in long relief, though he came up through the farm system as a starting pitcher.
Mar 16 2014Smith was optioned to Triple-A El Paso on Sunday.Entering spring training, the Padres' rotation was more or less set, but early struggles by Eric Stults opened the door for the likes of Smith and Robbie Erlin to impress and land a spot. However, in two appearances versus major leaguers, Smith himself pitched poorly, yielding 11 runs (nine earned) on 14 hits and one walk, while striking out two in 3.2 innings. Expect him to begin 2014 where he spent most of last season: at the Triple-A level.
Sep 28 2013Smith gave up six runs on eight hits and three walks with eight strikeouts over 5.2 innings against the Giants on Friday.Smith has shown tremendous promise this season and while his overall 6.44 ERA is unimpressive, one can't help seeing something special in his 11.39 K/9 over 36.1 innings. He shined brightest here in September as he posted a 3.80 ERA with 31 strikeouts over 23.2 innings and could be given an opportunity to compete for a rotation spot in 2014.
Sep 16 2013Smith totaled a career-high 10 strikeouts across seven scoreless innings during Sunday's victory in Atlanta.Smith set down the first 11 batters he faced, before walking Freddie Freeman with two outs in the fourth inning. In scattering three hits and two free passes, he kept a mid-90s fastball and a change-up down in the zone consistently, while mixing in a few curveballs for good measure. He'll attempt to sustain the most impressive MLB appearance of his brief eight-game career in his next nod Saturday versus the Dodgers, who have nearly locked down a playoff berth.
Sep 7 2013Making his first appearance since July 4, Smith gave up two runs on four hits and four walks with seven strikeouts over five innings against the Rockies on Friday.Burch hasn't exactly looked strong during his short time in the majors, posting a 9.17 ERA over 17.2 innings, but the Padres will likely give him an extended look here in September to see where he's at right now. He posted a 2.63 ERA with a 102:23 K:BB over 92.1 innings for Triple-A Tuscon and has the potential to be a strong member of the rotation next season.
Sep 3 2013Smith will start Friday's game against the Rockies, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.Smith turned in a nice year with Double-A San Antonio and Triple-A Tucson, but he's struggled to the tune of an 11.37 ERA through 12.2 big-league innings. The Padres will give him another shot in the rotation, though it seems possible that he will only last for one start.
Sep 2 2013Smith was recalled by the Padres on Monday, Corey Brock of MLB.com reports.Smith's first tenure in the majors was a rude awakening, as he was clobbered for 15 runs in his first three starts, but the 23-year-old has been effective at Triple-A Tucson (3.39 ERA, 9.6 K/9). It looks like he may make a few starts over the remainder of the season as the team attempts to limit Andrew Cashner's workload, but Smith could see some work out of the bullpen as well.
Jul 5 2013Smith was optioned to Triple-A Tucson on Friday.Burch's second stint with the big club went much more smoothly than his first, as he allowed just one run in three appearances (5.1 innings) after being smacked around for 15 earned runs over 7.1 innings back in May. Despite the improvement, the club needed to clear a spot on the active roster for Everth Cabrera (hamstring), so they sent Smith packing.
Jun 28 2013Smith was recalled by the Padres on Friday.In three starts for San Diego earlier this season, Smith gave up a whopping 15 runs over just 7.1 innings. The right-hander has been much better in the minors (1.82 ERA between Double-A San Antonio and Triple-A Tucson), so he'll get a chance to work out of the bullpen with Tommy Layne optioned off the active roster.
Jun 24 2013Smith improved to 3-1 after giving up just two runs on six hits and a walk with five strikeouts over 6.2 innings against Triple-A Reno on Sunday.Since his time spent in the majors, not counting his last cup of coffee in which he failed to even make an appearance, Smith has a 2.57 ERA and a 26:8 K:BB ratio over 28 innings (five starts). He's likely to stay on that shuttle back and forth to San Diego should they need anyone for a spot start, but considering Clayton Richard's shoulder injury, Edinson Volquez's performance, and the fact that neither Tim Stauffer nor Tyson Ross has proven to be all that impressive, Smith could see action sooner rather than later. The strikeout rate and command both look good, so he may be someone to consider for streaming purposes in case he receives another opportunity to start for the Padres.
Jun 11 2013Smith was sent down to Triple-A Tucson on Tuesday, MLB.com reports.Smith did not make an appearance following his call-up Saturday. He'll continue to act as a starter at Tucson, with the potential for a spot start in the majors if another injury befalls the Padres' rotation.
Jun 8 2013Smith was recalled by the Padres on Saturday, Corey Brock of MLB.com reports.In three starts for the Padres earlier this season, Smith gave up a whopping 15 runs over just 7.1 innings. He's been much better in the minors (1.52 ERA, 46:9 K:BB between Double-A San Antonio and Triple-A Tucson), and the right-hander will now get another chance with the big club, this time working out of the bullpen in long relief. Brad Boxberger was sent down.
May 22 2013Smith was optioned back down to Triple-A Tuscon immediately after getting shelled in Wednesday's loss to St. Louis.Smith couldn't escape the second inning of Wednesday's game, giving up four runs on five hits and three walks. Clayton Richard (illness) looks ready to return to the club at any point now, so the roster move to send Smith down probably was in response to the eventual call up of Richard. However, Smith's 18.41 ERA over three starts probably would have gotten him a demotion regardless.
May 18 2013Smith was once again bombarded Friday, allowing five runs on six hits and one walk, while tallying eight strikeouts in 5.1 innings, during San Diego's extra-inning defeat to Washington.Smith's fearsome fastball was both a blessing and a hindrance. While he topped out at 98 mph and consistently threw in the 94-96 mph range, three Nationals launched long balls off of him Friday, something that has occurred four times now against 33 MLB hitters in his two career starts. Still, he improved significantly over his brief major league debut last Saturday and is slated to toe the rubber once more -- Wednesday against stout St. Louis -- before Clayton Richard (illness) returns to the rotation.
May 12 2013Smith will remain in the rotation for the Padres, MLB.com's Corey Brock reports.Smith's big league debut was an absolute mess, as he lasted just one inning and surrendered six runs on five hits and two walks. Though his minor league production is impressive, it's tough to count on him delivering a good start against the Nationals, his scheduled opponent for Friday.
May 11 2013Smith struggled mightily in his major league debut Saturday. He lasted just one inning, giving up six runs, five hits, and two walks while striking out two.Smith looked like a decent flier streaming option coming into the game, but the 23-year-old righty simply couldn't get the job done. After dominating Double-A pitching through his first six starts (1.15 ERA, 0.74 WHIP and 37:6 strikeout-to-walk ratio), the Padres took a risk on Smith. Obviously, he seems to need some more seasoning.
May 8 2013Smith will be called up from Double-A San Antonio to start Saturday against the Rays, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.The Padres may have had more experienced options on their roster, but Smith's ridiculous numbers at Double-A through his first six starts (1.15 ERA, 0.74 WHIP and 37:6 strikeout-to-walk ratio) were simply to good to ignore. Smith was able exhibited similarly pristine control in the friendly-hitting confines of the California League, but even a cavernous park like Petco Park can prove to be challenging against major league hitters. The Rays don't boast too many imposing bats in their lineup, so Smith could be a good streaming option for at least his first start.
Apr 21 2013Smith, 23, has a 1.13 ERA and 20:3 K:BB ratio through 16 innings for Double-A San Antonio.Smith finally allowed an earned run in his last start Friday, but surrendered just one hit for the game. Opposing batters are hitting a mere .118 against him this season.