The MLB Draft wrapped up this week, with several hundred new prospects making their way to the minor leagues. One of those players was Chapel Hill High School’s Jake Smith, who was selected in the 21st round (pick No. 617) by the Philadelphia Phillies.

Smith, who is a right-handed pitcher, is committed to UNC-Wilmington should he not sign with the Phillies.

His bio on PerfectGame lists him at 6-5, 170-pounds, with a fastball that touches the low 90’s. He was a 2018 Rawlings-Perfect Game Honorable Mention All-American and an member of the Atlantic Region All High School Senior 1st Team.

Per a release from UNC-Wilmington when he signed, Smith posted a 6-1 record and a 0.58 ERA as a junior at Chapel Hill High School. 

“We expect Jake to compete for innings as a freshman because he really knows how to handle himself on the mound and has good stuff. He has a athletic lean body and loose arm, which allows his fastball to sit in the upper 80’s while reaching the low 90s. His curveball has a tight spin with good downward action for a potential out pitch. We look forward to watching him develop.” – Mark Scalf, UNC-Wiilmington head baseball coach

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