NORTH ADAMS, MA - Forming one of the back ends of one of the league’s best bullpens, Valley Blue Sox closer Tyler Smith (Canisius) was named the NECBL Reliever of the Year today. Just this past week, Smith was also named to the NECBL All-League1st team.

Smith ranked second in the league in saves (8) but, most importantly, had one of the best seasons in the history of the league from a relief pitcher. The rising senior at Canisius did not allow a single earned run over 19-1/3 innings of relief during which he struck out 38 and allowed just four walks and 10 hits to finish the regular season with a 0.52 WHIP. Opponents hit only 0.95 against him while he served as the closer for the North in the All-Star Game, as well. Combined with his achievements in the spring, Smith hurled 49 IP, compiled a 0.15 ERA while striking out 81 and allowing a microscopic .115 batting average against. 

Smith will return for his final season with the Golden Griffins this coming Spring.