In the world of Major League Baseball (MLB), success is often defined by the rings you wear—a testament to triumphs on the grandest stage. Few players encapsulate this elusive success like relief pitcher Will Smith, whose journey through the league has seen him play pivotal roles, albeit with varying degrees of impact, for three different World Series-winning teams in as many years.
Will Smith: A Key Contributor in Atlanta
Will Smith's impact in the MLB postseason first garnered widespread attention during the 2021 season. As the closer for the Atlanta Braves, Smith was nothing short of spectacular. In their playoff campaign that year, he managed to convert six save opportunities, holding opponents scoreless during these crucial games. His performance was instrumental in propelling the Braves to their first World Series title since 1995, a milestone that reignited excitement among Atlanta's ardent baseball fanatics. For his efforts, Smith was rightfully awarded a World Series ring as the Braves embarked on their postseason odyssey.
A Different Role in Houston
Following his triumphant run with the Braves, Smith found himself traded to the Houston Astros in 2022. The Astros, with their formidable roster, succeeded in winning the World Series that year. However, unlike his integral role with the Braves, Smith did not emerge as a key component of Houston's playoff relief squad. Still, his presence on the roster earned him another World Series ring, further adding to his impressive collection of accolades.
Joining Forces with Texas
Smith's journey continued as he signed with the Texas Rangers in the spring of 2023, a team looking to make history with their first-ever World Series title. During Texas's postseason run, Smith appeared in five games. However, unlike his stellar performances in 2021, his 2023 postseason did not yield the same results, as evidenced by his 10.80 ERA. Despite his challenges on the mound, Smith added yet another World Series ring to his name when the Rangers claimed their historic championship title.
The Kansas City Chapter
In a surprising offseason move, Will Smith signed a free-agent deal with the Kansas City Royals ahead of the 2023 campaign. The Royals, who had not tasted playoff baseball since 2015, managed to make a postseason appearance despite enduring a challenging regular season that saw them suffer 106 losses. Unfortunately, their postseason journey was cut short at the hands of the New York Yankees, who ended Kansas City’s hopes and dreams of a deeper playoff run.
The Uniqueness of Smith's Journey
Smith’s career trajectory offers a unique glimpse into the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of professional baseball. His tenure with different teams that each reached the pinnacle of success underscores both his personal adaptability and the ever-changing landscape of the MLB. The rarity of winning consecutive championships as a team—an achievement last claimed by the New York Yankees in 2000—highlights Smith’s extraordinary journey of amassing three rings with three different franchises, a testament to the unpredictable, yet thrilling nature of the sport.
As the 2023 MLB season concluded, Smith found himself donning the jersey of another team with aspirations of playoff glory. Whether he will continue to add to his ring collection with the Kansas City Royals, or any other franchise in the future, remains to be seen. Yet, what remains undeniable is Smith’s ability to find himself amidst championship-caliber rosters, a feat few can boast. As he continues to etch his name into MLB history, one thing is for sure: wherever Will Smith goes, success seems to follow.