James Smith IV brings power, speed, and two-way buzz to Memphis
In the 2026 season, James Smith IV has flashed real impact for Memphis: he earned American Conference Player of the Week honors after a monster weekend where he hit .600 with 9 hits, 3 homers, 16 RBIs, and a 1.933 OPS, and earlier in 2026 he was on the John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year watch list. His 2025 season showed the profile that makes scouts lean in—.277 with 12 extra-base hits and 8 steals in 29 games—plus legitimate arm talent as a right-handed two-way player. He looks like a fit for teams wanting athleticism, pop, and upside with real bite.
