[mikev]

Smith To Hang Em Up



It's not going to be met with huge amounts of fanfare. There will be no Hall of Fame induction. Still, Todd Smith felt it was time to notify the Crusaders that he would be retiring at the conclusion of the 2023 season.

"The passion isn't there like it used to be," said Smith. "I'm 36 years old. I've had a good run. Not a lot of people can say that they played in the big leagues, and I've been at this for 15 years now. It's time. Let the young kids take over."

Smith is widely known for his slick defensive skills over his hitting abilities, possessing a meager .224 batting average over his GUBA career.

The Las Vegas native is set to head back to his hometown after the season is over, though he has not ruled out a position with the Crusaders organization in the future.

"Yeah, I think I can give something back," he said. "Punch-and-judy hitter like me, though? Hah. I'm not talkin to anybody about their swing. Infield coach, though, that's something I could see myself doing one day. Sure. Who knows though, right now I'm going to finish out the season and then take some time off. It'll be kinda nice not havin to bust my ass all offseason to get ready for next year. I'll get to be a fan again."

Currently this season Smith is hitting .195/.254/.231. He has driven in 18 runs.