Here's how Josh Smith emerged to become Texas Rangers' secret weapon for 2025

The Texas Rangers have plenty of big names set to take the field for them this season.

While all their contributions are insanely valuable, the brightest spot on the roster is earning $800,000. Josh Smith was arguably the biggest return out of the July 2021 trade that sent Joey Gallo to the New York Yankees.

The 27-year-old broke out last year hitting .258 with 13 home runs, 62 RBI, 30 doubles and won the first Silver Slugger of his career.

However, Smith’s biggest value is his versatility.

“Super utility. Third base, short, maybe even second base, can even play first if you need it. He can play the outfield,” said President of Baseball Operations Chris Young. “There’s ways we can get him in the lineup at least 4, 5 if not 6 days of the week depending on the need."

Young praised Smith’s adaptability and performance in that role, emphasizing how important that is to have on the team.

“Josh has done a tremendous job for us. And that’s such a hard role for a young player and we saw how Josh stepped in last year and handled that and was able to perform while playing defensively very well in multiple positions,” Young added.

The benefit of Smith’s versatility reveals itself in multiple ways, such as offering a helping hand when a teammate needs a night off or half-day. In 2024, Smith played a career-high 149 games at five different positions, even filling in at DH for 13 games.

Take Corey Seager for example. He has struggled with injuries throughout his career. A player with Smith’s versatility is the difference maker in giving Seager an extra 10-15 games of rest per season.

Then when the injury bug comes around, Smith can fill that gap. He did it when Josh Jung only played 24 games last year. In 83 games at third base, Smith slashed .279/.371/.434 with an .805 OPS, eight home runs, 32 RBIs and 27 walks.

That’s why Young continues to show nothing but praise and respect for Smith. His breakout season only further builds the organization’s confidence in Smith.

His consistent defense, ability to put up good at-bats, and get on base, allows Bruce Bochy to be creative with his lineup every game and give much-needed rest to avoid injuries. And for all that, Smith is the Rangers most valuable asset.