Winter Garden Squeeze player John Smith III wins second Home Run Derby

Winter Garden Squeeze first baseman and outfielder John Smith III — a University of South Alabama commit and former Pensacola State player — won his second Florida Collegiate Summer League home run derby on Wednesday, July 10.

Though Smith III, a Sun City Center, Florida native, has only appeared in six games for the Squeeze this season, not only did his performance during the Florida League's All-Star Game festivities show how potent his bat can be but so has his production during the chances he's had for Winter Garden. 

In 17 plate appearances, Smith III has a .353 batting average (6/17) with six runs batted in, three runs scored, a home run, one stolen base and seven walks (.542 on-base percentage). 

Smith III and the Squeeze are currently the hottest team in the Florida League, winning eight of its last 10 games. With a 17-11 record Winter Garden is tied with the Leesburg Lightning (16-10) for first place in the Florida League standings. 

Next up for the Squeeze will be a second road game at the DeLand Suns on Saturday, July 13. Winter Garden's next home game — which is also Host Family Night — will be on Monday, July 15 against the Sanford River Rats.