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With the 2022 class pretty much wrapped up, Dave Van Horn and his staff have begun to concentrate on the 2023 class. The Razorbacks added their newest commitment in Harding Academy’s Kade Smith.
I am extremely humbled & blessed to announce my commitment to the University of Arkansas to further my baseball dream and academic endeavors. #1 I want to thank God for giving me my ability and providing me with this opportunity. Woo Pig! @RazorbackBSB @ARPROSPECTS pic.twitter.com/6vu74jMHEK
— kade smith (@kadesmith111) June 23, 2021
FROM THE GURU:
Smith is a true three pitch mix guy who can fill up the strike zone.
He has pitched against some of the best hitters in the country so far this summer and has been pretty dominant. Smith throws a fastball between 87-90 miles per hour and maintains his velocity throughout. His curve ball and change ups are the secondary pitches and can throw them any count.
At the plate, he has a short compact load with the ability to power hits to all fields. Smith can run the bases well, too. He is projected to be a corner outfielder if the Hogs decide to use him as a two way player.
His primary recruiter is pitching coach Matt Hobbs which could mean that his highest upside is on the mound.
Smith had offers from Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Kansas State.
*stats, profile from Kevin Bohannon
STATS
Smith hit .531 this spring with five home runs for the Wildcats. He went undefeated from the mound with a 6-0 record. He pitched 32 innings with 61 strikeouts to only nine walks.
HOG BASEBALL RECRUITING
Smith is the 14th commit for Hogs in the class of 2023. He is the fourth ranked prospect in state of Arkansas. The Razorbacks class is currently ranked 8th by Perfect Game.