Cam Smith Astros prospect is drawing attention, but Houston Astros legend and current team advisor Jeff Bagwell isn’t making any promises about his Opening Day status. Still, he is issuing a challenge: “Make us do something with you.” Those words carry weight coming from one of the most respected figures in Astros history.
Smith, a 6-foot-3 power-hitting third baseman, has certainly risen. Nicknamed an “aircraft carrier” by Astros GM Dana Brown for his imposing frame and powerful presence, the 2024 first-round pick crushes Spring Training with a staggering .423 batting average and three home runs in 26 at-bats.
While Bagwell isn’t guaranteeing Smith a spot in Houston’s Opening Day lineup, he’s impressed. “Like a lot of our guys,” Bagwell said, “Cam is starting to make us do something.”
The Stats Don’t Lie: Smith’s Red-Hot Spring
Spring numbers can be deceiving, but Smith’s performance is hard to overlook. With just 32 minor-league games under his belt, the Florida State product is outshining many seasoned prospects. His approach at the plate is mature, his swing is explosive, and his confidence grows with every at-bat.
Though he may still begin the season in Double-A Corpus Christi or Triple-A Sugar Land, many believe a Major League debut in 2025 is inevitable. If Smith keeps swinging like this, the Astros may not have a choice but to fast-track his journey to Houston.
Not Just Smith: Matthews and Dezenzo Making Waves
Cam Smith isn’t the only young gun earning praise. Bagwell spent over a month working with Astros’ prospects at Spring Training in West Palm Beach, Florida, and he’s encouraged by what he’s seen.
The team’s No. 2 prospect, Brice Matthews, is flashing his defensive brilliance at shortstop. However, he’s likely a year away from facing big-league pitching. Meanwhile, Zach Dezenzo—Houston’s No. 5 prospect—is hitting .371 this spring and making a strong case for an Opening Day roster spot, thanks to his hot bat and versatility.
Dezenzo already got a taste of the big leagues in 2024, batting .242 and hitting two home runs in limited action. His experience and spring surge could give him the edge as the Astros finalize their roster.
Bagwell Sees Hunger and Grit in Houston’s Young Core
What excites Bagwell the most isn’t just the numbers—it’s the mindset. “It’s an everyday grind,” he said. “But these guys understand that. They just want it, you know?”
This hunger, drive, and work ethic are the qualities Bagwell believes will carry Houston’s next generation to success. The determination from Smith, Dezenzo, Matthews, and others gives fans—and the organization—plenty of reasons to be optimistic.
One Week to Shine Before Opening Day
As Spring Training enters its final week, these top prospects have one last shot to prove they belong. The Astros open their 2025 season next Thursday against the New York Mets and superstar Juan Soto at Daikin Park. The first pitch is at 3:10 p.m. CT.
Whether Cam Smith makes the Opening Day roster or not, one thing is clear—Houston Astros‘ future looks incredibly bright.