Updated September 08 2016

Former Florence RedWolf Jacob Smith Makes Major League Debut for the San Diego Padres

HOLLY SPRINGS, N.C.

Former Florence RedWolves pitcher Jake Smith made his major league debut September 7 for the San Diego Padres. Coming on in the eighth inning in relief, Smith allowed two hits and one run as the Padres fell 7-2 to the Boston Red Sox.

His call-up marked the culmination of a journey of perseverance for the young right-hander as he was drafted in the 48th round of the 2011 MLB Draft out of Campbell by the San Francisco Giants, the draft now only includes 40 rounds. He was claimed off of waivers earlier this season by the Padres and went on to impress the organization with a 1.59 ERA over six appearances and 5 1/3 innings pitched at the AA level.

Smith spent his 2010 summer player for the Coastal Plain League’s Florence RedWolves, accumulating a 2.18 ERA while allowing only one extra-base hit over 14 appearances and 20 2/3 innings pitched to go along with 22 strikeouts and four saves. He marks the 93rd overall former CPL player to make his major league debut, and the twelfth so far this season. His debut also pushed the RedWolves major league alumni total to twelve.

The Coastal Plain League is the nation’s premier summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its 20th season in 2016, the CPL features 16 teams playing in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. The CPL has had nearly 1,300 alumni drafted and 93 of those – including 2011 AL MVP and Cy Young winner Justin Verlander – make their Major League debut; while another notable alum – Russell Wilson – won Super Bowl XLVIII. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league website at www.coastalplain.com, like us on Facebook at Coastal Plain League and follow us via Twitter and Instagram @CPLBaseball.

Contact:

Shelby Hilliard

Phone:

919-852-1960