Control issues continue Smith allowed five runs on three hits and six walks over 1.1 innings in a no-decision against the Padres on Friday. He struck out two. Impact The left-hander's inability to find the strike zone appeared to bury Arizona early, though the Diamondbacks were able to mount an improbable comeback to take Smith off the hook for a loss. Still, his dramatic lack of control has become a glaring issue, as Smith threw only 26 of 61 pitches for strikes and issued a season-high six free passes. Over his past two starts, the 30-year-old has handed out a combined 11 walks across three innings, resulting in 10 earned runs. Smith is scheduled to make his next start at home against San Diego next week, but there may be some discussion about the need for a reset after the pair of disastrous outings.
AUGUST 7, 2021 • ROTOWIRE
