Wolfpack Baseball Commit Emerging As Two-Sport Standout

Even before his freshman year of high school, Pfafftown (NC) Reagan standout Jacob Smith‍  (6-3, 195 pounds) was already a much sought-after athlete. He was widely regarded as one of the top baseball prospects in the state of North Carolina and someone that NC State and head coach Elliott Avent identified early on as a priority for the Wolfpack. Smith was rated as high as the 37th best player nationally in his class and the No. 1 overall player in North Carolina.

The loyalty and interest from Avent and NC State paid off last February when Smith committed to the Wolfpack.

“I was at a tournament and I started talking to coach Chrysler and coach Avent,” Smith told Inside Pack Sports. “After that tournament I was talking to them and that’s how I got connected to NC State. 

“I really fell in love with the campus, and my relationship with that coaching staff was the best out of all the ones I talked to. It was an easy decision for me. It was close to home. I’m rolling with the Pack.”

Smith said he expects to compete at shortstop and pitcher once he arrives in Raleigh.

His high school career took somewhat of an unexpected turn in 2022, however. Smith was named the starting quarterback for Reagan and he performed well, especially considering he was a freshman playing 4A level football.

For the year Smith completed 64 of 122 passes for 961 yards and ten touchdowns. He also rushed 17 times for 119 yards and an additional score in seven games while helping lead Reagan to a solid 8-3 record. 

That production and Smith’s potential has already led to a football offer from East Carolina. NC State is also on the radar.  Smith visited State last season for the Florida State game and was back this past weekend for the Wolfpack’s junior day. 

“Junior day was great; being the first time seeing the football side of things, I was impressed,” Smith told Inside Pack Sports. “Also, getting to spend some time with Coach Roper was great. I plan on getting back to Raleigh in March to see spring practice, so I am excited for that.”

With an offer on the table from East Carolina and more likely to come down the road, there’s a real opportunity to potentially play two sports in college. Smith said it’s something he’s excited about pursuing.

“Right now, me and my dad talked about it. I’m an athlete playing two sports, but my main goal is to play both in college.”