Coming home

Joe Smith reports to spring training in February for the World Champion Houston Astros. Smith recently signed a two-year contract to pitch for the Astros in what will be his 12th year in the big leagues.

To prepare for the season, Smith has been lacing up his sneakers and working out with the Wright State baseball team in the Nutter Center’s McLin Gym.

“There’s a little bit of the starstruckness at the beginning, but now he’s just one of the guys,” said Caleb Sampen, a sophomore pitcher.

Smith and the players worked on fine adjustments, fielding and pickoffs.

“I come in and try to act like I’m part of the team. If they ask me something I will answer,” said Smith.

Smith pitched for the Wright State Raiders from 2004 to 2006, leading the Raiders to the 2006 NCAA tournament. He was selected in the third round of the 2006 Major League Baseball draft by the New York Mets. He now leads all active pitchers in appearances with 698.

Smith will be the headline speaker at the Raiders’ 14th annual First Pitch Banquet Saturday, Feb. 3, at the Moraine Country Club. For more information, visit wsuraiders.com or call 937-775-2771.