Jake Smolinski belts his first career home run

Oakland – The Texas Rangers got a much needed boost yesterday when Jake Smolinski returned to the lineup. Not only did they need someone in the lineup that could hit, but also someone that could play the outfield. The outfield was started to get pretty empty because the Michael Choice joined the list of Rangers that are done for the season due to an injury.

It has been almost 2 months since Jake Smolinski has played with the Rangers. Before he had to leave due to injury he was hitting .389 over 11 games/ 36 at-bats. He was starting to make some noise and bring excitement to the offense that was lacking both.

Last night during his return he continued to bring that excitement to the plate by hitting his first home run of his career in the majors.

I’m not the only one that’s impressed with Jake Smolinski

So Jake Smolinski misses 2 months of action....doesn't get to face any live pitching, comes off the DL today and hits a 2-run HR..go figure
— Mike Peasley (@PeasRadio) September 17, 2014

Jake Smolinski, who hadn't seen live pitching since July, just hit his first big-league homer. It's 2-0 #Rangers in the fourth.
— Jeff Wilson (@JeffWilsonTXR) September 17, 2014

I think the best surprises this season are:
Smolinski
Chirinos
Rua (small sample size)
Rosales
Colby

Few more, too tired at the moment
— Teddy Ballgame (@teddyballgamebb) September 17, 2014

Video: 09/16/14 – Jake Smolinski’s first MLB home run
Jake Smolinski belts his first career homer to give the Rangers a 2-0 lead in the 4th

This season has been pretty horrible in a lot of ways, but being able to see players like Jake Smolinski and other players that will be the future of the club gives hope for next season and beyond.

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