What happened: Smith struck out four while completing three perfect frames. The appearance was his 10th since moving to the bullpen.
Why it matters: He has allowed one earned run and recorded 23 strikeouts in that span. The sustained production strengthens his case for higher-leverage assignments down the stretch.
By the numbers: Smith has averaged 12.9 strikeouts per nine innings since joining the bullpen.
What to watch: His next appearance will test whether the relief surge carries deeper into September.