After waiting a month for his spring debut, this Marlins pitcher did not disappoint

Caleb Smith spent his first month of spring training working in the background, relying on a healthy dose of bullpen sessions and simulated games.

Coming back from injury has its costs. For Smith, rehab served as a substitution for playing time.

But on Wednesday, at long last, Smith made his way onto the mound at Roger Dean Stadium in the sixth inning against the St. Louis Cardinals to make his first appearance in a live game since June 24.

“I’m hoping he’s good,” Marlins manager Don Mattingly said before the game.

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How’s this for good: Four perfect innings with six strikeouts on just 47 pitches.