On day three of the 2018 MLB draft, the Detroit Tigers selected prep shortstop Kelvin Smith, Jr. with the first pick of the 20th round (585th overall). Listed at 6’1 and 185 pounds, Smith was one of the top shortstops in the baseball-rich state of Georgia’s class. Originally committed to play college ball at the University of Missouri, it was a pleasant surprise to Tigers fans when he inked a deal for $140,000 ($15,000 over slot) and went off to the Gulf Coast League to start his professional career.
In the field, scouts have praised both his hands and feet, as well as his ability to throw well on the move.