Goldeyes sign Smith, Hardy

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This article was published 04/04/2013 (4812 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Winnipeg Goldeyes have inked two Canadian players — both World Baseball Classic alums — to a growing 2013 roster.

Outfielder Tim Smith and left-handed pitcher Mark Hardy will join the Fish this year, the team announced Thursday.

Smith, 26, hails from Toronto and was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the seventh round of the 2007 MLB amateur draft. He played in the Rangers system for three years and the Kansas City Royals’ organization for two, before putting in a year with the Atlanta Braves’ organization last season.

In 2012, he hit .320 with a home run and six RBI in 15 games in the Advanced-A Carolina League, and .279 with two home runs and 22 RBI in 55 games with Mississippi of the AA Southern League.

“He’s a middle of the order, impact-type hitter,” Goldeyes manager Rick Forney said in a statement. “He’s a very patient guy and career .300 hitter. He’s a good outfielder and runs a lot better than what most people would think. We expect him to drive in some important runs for us.”

Campbell River, B.C. product Hardy, 24, was drafted by the San Diego Padres in 2010 and played three seasons in their system. A known strike-thrower, he played at four levels last year, but spent most of the season split between the Advanced-A Carolina League and the AA Texas League.

Both players were on Team Canada’s roster at the 2013 World Baseball Classic, and were on the gold-winning 2011 Pan Am Games team.

The signings bring the Goldeyes roster up to 23 players, including 14 pitchers and nine position players. Training camp opens on May 4.