On Friday, the baseball world and more specifically the Atlanta Braves family are reeling after the news that Dwight Smith has passed away at the age of 58. The Braves organization posted a message on social media, announcing the tragic loss with some truly kind words.

“We are saddened by the passing earlier today of Dwight Smith, an integral member of our 1995 World Series Championship team. The 1989 National League Rookie of the Year runner up, Dwight enjoyed an eight-year major league career that included two postseason trips with the Cubs and Braves. Dwight was also a beloved alumni member, and his infectious smile will be missed around Truist Park. Our deepest condolences to his wife Cheryl, daughters Taylor and Shannyn, and son Dwight Jr,” the message read.

Smith was drafted into the majors in 1984 and began his career with the Cubs on May 1, 1989. That year, he hit .324 with a career-high 111 hits but ultimately lost Rookie of the Year honors to his teammate, Jerome Walton. The Cubs would lose the NLCS but Smith would eventually get to the top of baseball.

Article Continues Below

On July 21, 1989, at Wrigley Field, Dwight Smith became the first and only rookie in MLB history to sing the National Anthem before a game against the San Francisco Giants.

After a few relatively lackluster seasons with Chicago, he was dealt to the Braves. In 1995, he was part of the Braves team that defeated the Cleveland Indians.

Dwight Smith was born in Tallahassee, Florida on November 8, 1963. He is survived by his wife Cheryl, daughters Taylor and Shannyn, and son Dwight Jr, who was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the first round of the 2011 MLB Draft.