Former NC State Pitcher Derrick Smith Signs with the Rockies

Former NC State pitcher Derrick Smith was selected by the Colorado Rockies in the 16th round of the 2025 MLB Draft with the 497th overall pick. Smith has officially signed his contract.

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On June 5th, news broke that Smith had entered the transfer portal, looking for a new home for his final year of collegiate eligibility. However, after signing his professional contract, he will forgo his final year of college baseball.

The 2024 season was a breakout year for Smith. He led the Wolfpack with 8 saves and held opponents to a .181 batting average. His strikeout-to-walk ratio was 41:11. Smith shined brightest in postseason play, recording 3 saves during the NCAA Tournament, which ultimately culminated in a College World Series appearance. In the tournament, he posted a 2.45 ERA and held opponents to a .130 batting average. He finished the season with a 3–2 record and a 4.55 ERA.

Smith missed the start of this season due to injury, making his first appearance on March 11th. Last year, NC State had a dominant late-game duo—Jacob Dudan pitching the 8th inning and Smith closing out the 9th. This season, however, Smith never quite regained his form after returning from injury, and as a result, he didn’t reestablish his role in the bullpen rotation. He made just 6 appearances in 2025, posting a 6.00 ERA. Truth be told, he never seemed to find his stuff again.

Congrats Derrick!