Kevin Smith

Smith got his first taste of major-league action in 2021 and hit .094 with a solo homer and two runs across 18 games. In spite of his growing pains during his first stint in the majors, he was productive at Triple-A Buffalo last year, slashing .285/.370/.561 with 21 home runs, 69 RBI, 65 runs and 18 stolen bases. Even if he begins the 2022 campaign in the minors, it wouldn't be surprising to see him return to the big leagues at some point this year. He'll compete for the starting third base job in a rebuilding Oakland lineup this spring.

Smith, a fourth-round pick in 2017, went from being a complete afterthought in dynasty leagues to a borderline top-100 prospect. He was the best player in the Midwest League (190 wRC+, solid defense at shortstop), a distinction that did not carry much weight, considering he was 21 years old. However, when he continued to perform at a high level in the pitcher-friendly Florida State League, more people started to buy into him being a future everyday big leaguer. Among FSL hitters with at least 300 PA, Smith was top-10 in wRC+ (127), ISO (.194), and HR (18). He stole 29 bases on 35 attempts, but that oversells his raw speed -- he could steal 10-to-15 bases in the majors. While he may only hit .250 or .260, Smith has enough power and glove for the keystone if he has to move off shortstop. Double-A will be a big test, but if he can keep his strikeout rate in check there, he would be on track to debut in early 2020.