Smith Named to Home Run Derby Watch List

OMAHA, Neb. – Charleston Southern designated hitter Derek Smith has been named to the 2011 College Home Run Derby Watch List and is in contention for a spot at the 2011 TD Ameritrade College Home Run Derby, which will be held July 2 at the TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Neb.

The College Home Run Derby will feature eight of the nation's premier power hitters facing off in an elimination-style format competition.  A current watch list featuring this season's heavy hitters is published weekly in Baseball America.  A list of participating players will be announced in the coming weeks.  The event will air on CSB on July 3, with commentary provided by Frank Thomas.  Legends Paul Molitor and Joe Carter will be on hand as hitting coaches for the event. 

Smith ended his career as one of the most prolific home run hitters in Charleston Southern program history.   He ranks second all time with 33 career home runs and finished tied for third in the Big South with 12 in 2011.   As a freshman in 2008, Smith finished eighth in the Big South with 11 home runs and earned both Big South All-Conference First Team and Freshman All-American honors. 

Fans are encouraged to show their support for Smith on the College Home Run Derby Facebook page, which can be found here.  The page will feature a 12-part original video series, updates about the event, player announcements, photo galleries and more.