17 June 2008

Smallie hot out of the gate for Harwich

By Matt Rice

REGIONAL -

A native of North Carolina, this right-handed shortstop introduced himself to the Harwich fans in grand fashion, going 3-for-4 in his inaugural game as a Mariner during Saturday’s season-opening win over Bourne. He was also perfect in the field on five opportunities. 

“I was really just looking to have good at-bats, but it was great to get off to a good start and help my team,” said Smallie on Monday night, following the Mariners 4-1 win over Chatham.

As a result of his performance, Smallie was named the Coca-Cola Player of the Week by the league.

After not seeing live pitching for more than two weeks, Smallie said he worked in the cage to keep sharp.

“I was pretty exited when I got the invitation to play here this summer. It’s the premiere summer league for college players so the talent level is great. It’s such a beautiful place to play and the weather is really nice. Much better than the 105-degree heat with humidity.”

The soon-to-be-junior at Arkansas batted .250 for the season, including leading the Razorbacks with 99 total bases. He finished the season second on the team in doubles with 14 and homeruns with 9.

He also had a team-high 14-game hitting streak for the razorbacks.

During Saturday’s 9-4 season opening win over Bourne, Smallie had two RBI on three hits and scored a run.

He added that he liked the idea of playing 6-7 games a week, instead of the 2-3 or less in college.

“You don’t have school work to worry about or anything else besides going out and playing baseball everyday.”

After playing in a wooden bat league last summer and a few tournaments in high school, Smallie said he liked using wooden bats.

“There’ll be a few minor adjustments that need to be made, like shortening up on the bat, but I like using the wooden bats; it’s old school.”

One of six current Razorbacks playing in the Cape League this summer, Smallie said he enjoys playing against his current teammates.

When not playing baseball, Smallie said he enjoys fishing for small and large mouth bass back home, and is hoping to do some striper fishing while up here.

“We went out once and didn’t catch anything, so hopefully we’ll be more lucky next time.

Smallie didn’t get a hit against Chatham on Monday night, but hopes to continue his hot hitting when the Mariners play at Orleans tonight.