There's a profile by Ryan Metz over at milb.com that's worth reading. Some key quotes:
On giving up the whole pitching thing:
"The next day I went out and took batting practice. It was a pretty quick turnover. Right away I had mixed feelings. I can't say I wasn't a bit disappointed. But at the same time I was pretty excited because playing in the outfield and hitting is something I have always enjoyed doing."
On not having a chance to think:
"I definitely feel more comfortable now. I don't like to sit around and dwell on things because I will. As a starting pitcher if I didn't have a good game for four days I'd be mulling it over and getting down on myself. If I have a bad game now I can go out the next day and get a couple hits."
On how he recognizes his good fortune:
"It's definitely a second chance. A lot of guys if they go in as a pitcher and they don't do well they're gone. Having the opportunity to start over and do something, I'm pretty lucky to do that."
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
