When the Atlanta Braves arrived at spring training this year, they probably didn't think that they would be relying on Dominic Smith much. Most of the DH at-bats were going to get taken up by whichever catcher wasn't starting along with Jurickson Profar, and taking Matt Olson out of the lineup is not an option unless something wild happens. However, Sean Murphy's recovery was a bit slow, and Profar got suspended for PEDs again, cementing his status as one of the most hated Braves players ever. Thankfully, Smith answered the call and then some.
In short, Smith has been great for the role he has been used in. In avoiding match-ups against LHP completely, Smith has looked like a brand-new player with a .358/.386/.543 line and four home runs across 89 plate appearances. Sure, he isn't a perfect hitter, but Smith has been a great platoon option and one that has played a big role in the Braves' early-season success.
With the Braves rolling along, it is starting to become time to think about what the Braves' trade deadline moves they want to make will be. For better or worse, Smith may actually be a key factor in those plans.
Another great game for Dom Smith! pic.twitter.com/wRiYlWaNwd
— BravesVision (@BravesVisionTV) May 13, 2026
Dom Smith's success or failure going forward with the Braves could alter the team's trade deadline
When Murphy returned from injury, Smith did lose some playing time, and that was to be expected. However, Murphy now has a broken finger, which will keep him out for at least a couple of months. Before that point, there was a really strong argument to either make Smith available at the trade deadline or keep him and trade away the Braves' other lefty platoon bat, Mike Yastrzemski.
Now, the picture is a bit less clear. We don't exactly know how the Braves envision using the pieces they have when at full strength, and they don't HAVE to make any decisions yet while Ronald Acuña Jr. is out. However, he is going to be back, and that is going to take away an outfield spot to allow Atlanta's bench to get into games. With Murphy out, how the Braves want to handle catching duties as well as designated hitter will determine who stays and who goes, and Smith is making compelling cases in both directions.
If we are honest, the Braves may want to keep Smith around regardless. Not only has he been productive in a role Atlanta needs, but they may want to not mess with a good thing and disrupt their plans and the clubhouse. However, that will require that Smith continue playing well. If he does, the Braves' lives get a bit more difficult, but for all the right reasons.
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