Q&A with Wichita State Commit Brady Smith
January 20, 2026
A well-known name to our staff, RHP Brady Smith (East Carter) is one of the top arms in Missouri’s senior class and currently checks in at No. 34 in the state rankings. A small-school product, Smith turned heads throughout the year with standout showings at the Missouri Preseason All-State, A’s Scout Day, and the Missouri State Games. He ran his fastball into the low-90s at those events, pairing it with a quality slider and changeup mix, all coming from a lean 6-foot-2, 176-pound frame that still has room to add strength. Smith wrapped up his summer by committing to Wichita State University.
We recently had the chance to talk to Smith about his recruitment process, along with some other fun topics, below.
Our Q&A
Prep Baseball: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?
Brady: I was looking for the college that gave me the most money to come play and be able to play as a freshmen and also be a great family program.
PB: What do you like most about the program you chose, and what were the key factors in making your decision?
B: I really liked the support system at WSU and it just felt like home when I went on my visit. I also chose this program because I want to go in and have a good chance to play as a freshmen.
PB: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?
B: Get in the weight room and develop and make sure your numbers are there before you start showcasing and go to as many college showcases [as possible] to get your name out.
PB: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Where did the school you committed to first see you play?
B: Winter of my junior year going into the summer.
PB: Was there a particular Prep Baseball tournament or showcase that helped accelerate your recruiting process? If yes, how so?
B: The MO State Games and a couple ID showcase[s]. This is because I put up good numbers and caught coaches eyes .
PB: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?
B: SEMO, Dayton, and a few jucos in the Jayhawk Conference and Region 16 Conference.
PB: Who is the best player you have faced in your state? What about them makes for a tough opponent?
B: Ty Putnam, he is very electric.
PB: Who is the next talented young player to keep an eye on out of your high school or travel program?
B: Brady Yates
PB: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college-caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?
B: My sophomore year.
PB: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?
B: Winning district championship my sophomore year.
PB: Preview your high school team's season for us. How do you feel your team will be?
B: I feel very confident about this upcoming season and feel like if we stick together and play as a team we have a great shot to win it all.
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