NEWARK, NJ, Dec. 14—The Newark Bears Professional Baseball Club announced today that third baseman Corey Smith, who played a key role in the team’s 2007 Atlantic League Championship, has been signed by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Smith will report to minor league spring training camp in early March and is likely targeted to play at Double-A Arkansas this season.
The 25 year-old Smith batted a career-high .274 with Newark in 2007. He established a new franchise single-season record by stroking a career-best 37 doubles, which was also the second highest total in the Atlantic League last year. Smith belted 18 home runs, had three triples, and drove in 72 runs a year ago.
During the Bears march to the ’07 Atlantic League Crown, Smith batted .435 in six playoff games, 3rd best of all players. The Piscataway, NJ native also was tied for the most doubles (4) and extra-base hits (5), and was second in hits (10), while playing an outstanding, error-free third base.
“The entire Bears organization is very happy for Corey, and also very appreciative for what he did in helping make us champions last season,” said Bears Assistant General Manager of baseball Operations Jim Cerny. “Corey delivered his best play at the absolute most important time of the year, in the playoffs, and was a major reason the Bears won the 2007 title. We wish him all the best in his goal of reaching the Major Leagues with the Angels.”
Smith, an eight-year pro, was originally drafted out of Piscataway High School in the first round of the 2000 amateur draft by the Cleveland Indians. He briefly reached the Triple-A level in 2004 with the Indians; and he has also played in the San Diego Padres and Chicago White Sox organizations.
Newark Bears full-season, mini-plan, and group ticket packages for the 2008 season are currently available by calling 1-866-55-4BEAR or by logging on to the team’s official web site, www.newarkbears.com. The Bears home opener will take place on Tuesday, April the 29th at 7:05 PM against the Bridgeport Bluefish.
