CONGRATULATIONS – Rangers Utilityman Josh Smith Misses Cleveland Finale for the Best Reason: He and Wife Claire Welcome Their First Child
CLEVELAND — Baseball paused for a far greater milestone on Sunday evening when Texas Rangers infielder Josh Smith and his wife Claire welcomed their first child. Smith, 26, missed the finale of the Rangers’ weekend series against the Cleveland Guardians, but teammates and fans alike agreed his absence was for the best reason of all.
A Joyous Arrival
The Rangers announced the happy news shortly after the final out in Cleveland, sharing that Smith and Claire were celebrating the birth of their baby, whose name and details the family is keeping private for now. “Josh is over the moon,” manager Bruce Bochy said. “We’re thrilled for him and Claire. This is one of those life moments that means more than any game.”
Smith, known for his versatility and steady play around the infield, has been a quiet contributor to Texas’ lineup this season. But for one night, his focus shifted completely from batting averages and defensive shifts to the miracle of parenthood.
Teammates Send Love
Inside the clubhouse, the news brought smiles and cheers. “He’s a great teammate and an even better person,” said shortstop Corey Seager. “We can’t wait to meet the newest member of the Rangers family.”
Veteran outfielder Marcus Semien added, “Josh is the kind of guy who brings positivity every day. Seeing him start his own family is really special for all of us.”
Players and staff signed a baby-sized Rangers jersey, planning to present it to the Smiths when the team returns to Texas. “That little one already has the best fan club,” said catcher Jonah Heim with a grin.
Fans Celebrate Online
Rangers fans flooded social media with congratulations. Messages poured in from across the country: “That’s the ultimate home run, Josh!” wrote one supporter on X. Another added, “From big hits to big hugs—welcome to parenthood!”
For a team and fan base that knows the grind of a long MLB season, the moment provided a heartwarming reminder that life’s biggest wins happen off the field.
A Night Bigger Than Baseball
Smith, a native of Louisiana who joined the Rangers organization in 2021, has often spoken about the support of his wife and family. Sunday’s milestone underscored that bond. “Baseball will always be here,” Bochy said. “But nights like this are once-in-a-lifetime.”
The Rangers will rejoin Smith when the team heads home, giving the new dad a chance to settle into life’s most rewarding role. As fans celebrated a hard-fought series win, they also recognized that the true victory of the night belonged to the Smith family.
For Josh Smith, who has spent his career chasing big-league dreams, welcoming his first child is a moment that transcends box scores and standings — the kind of life event that even a World Series ring can’t top.
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