Smithson Anxious To Show His Improvement

Andrew Smithson LHP / OF / Andover, MA / 2021

ANDOVER, Ma. - Andrew Smithson is doing the best that he can do to make a positive out of a negative.

“Because of the coronavirus, I honestly think my work ethic has gotten a lot better,” the Andover junior related. “I feel because of that I'm getting ahead of the others in the race.”

The return of the “race” to be seen brings excitement to the top-ranked 2021 uncommitted left-handed pitcher in New England.

“I’m hoping to get on the field to show what I can do pitching,” Smithson said. “I really enhanced my game during the quarantine and I want to prove that.”

Northeastern, Seton Hall and Xavier are ‘the big three” schools the 5-11 185-pounder was in contact with prior to COVID-19 changing the recruiting process.

“I’m hoping to get more exposure over the summer,” the 37th-rated New England 2021 said. “It’s been tough with the quarantine, but fortunately I live across from Andover High School and I’ve been able to go over there and long toss.”

Dennis Healy, PBR Massachusetts Director of Scouting, believes Smithson has a big future ahead.

“He is an excellent left-handed pitching prospect,” Healy explained. “The fastball sits in the low-to-mid-80s as of now, with more to come as his frame fills out. He also shows the makings of a plus-breaking ball. The pitch has depth and shape to it. The change-up is quality as well. He gets turnover and action.

“He’s also a strike thrower based on what I have seen,” added Healy. “And he competes at all times.”