We continue the countdown today with number 51, Coastal Carolina LHP Ben Smith. In his sophomore season with the Chanticleers, Smith played an important part of Coastal’s success in the 2013 season. As part of the starting rotation, the southpaw made 16 starts combining for 92.2 IP which was good for most on the team. Standing at 6’2”, Smith posted a 5-4 record with a 2.23 ERA as he helped the Chanticleers to a 37-23 record. Smith also led the team with 83 strikeouts and held opponents to a .219 batting average.
The Wichita Falls, Texas native attended Rider High School where he led the Raiders to a State Championship. The left hander was a Texas Sports Writers Association second team All-State selection as a pitcher as well as an honorable mention All-State first baseman. As a senior, Smith was named District 4-4A Pitcher of the year after going 12-2 on the mound with a 1.47 ERA and an impressive 160 strikeouts.
During the 2013 summer, the southpaw competed in the prestigious Cape Cod League where he was a member of the Cotuit Kettleers. During his time there, Smith made 7 starts and totalled 28.2 innnings as he helped the Kettleers to a 25-18 record. Smith went 2-0 with a 2.82 ERA and a team-high 35 strikeouts. The lefty from Coastal showed impressive stuff during the Kettleers season and showed great command of the zone only walking 11 batters.
The rising junior returns to Coastal Carolina for the 2014 season and will be a prospect to watch for the Chanticleers.
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