Canaan Smith-Njigba, the older brother of NFL prospect Jaxon Smith-Njigba, made waves in MLB, marking a significant milestone in his career.

In the lead-up to the highly anticipated 2023 NFL draft, the spotlight often shines brightly on Ohio State wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Touted as one of the draft’s top wide receiver prospects, his journey to professional football holds the attention of fans and scouts alike. However, in the midst of Jaxon’s NFL prospects, another Smith-Njigba has been making waves in a different arena – MLB.

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Who is Canaan Smith-Njigba?

Canaan Smith-Njigba, the older brother of Jaxon, embarked on his MLB career in 2022, and recently, he etched his name in baseball history with his first career MLB RBI. This milestone occurred during a game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Boston Red Sox at the iconic Fenway Park.

Canaan’s journey to professional baseball began earlier, as he played college baseball at the University of Arkansas. He caught the eye of scouts and was selected by the New York Yankees in the fourth round of the 2017 MLB draft. In 2021, he made a transition to the Pittsburgh Pirates, setting the stage for his budding MLB career.

The Smith-Njigba family’s 2023 is shaping up to be a monumental year, as both Canaan and Jaxon embark on their respective professional journeys. The brothers, sons of Madda and Jami Smith-Njigba, share a deep-rooted passion for sports that began during their days at Rockwall High School in Heath, Texas.

While Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s ascent in the world of football is poised for a first-round entry into the NFL, Canaan’s strides in MLB offer a unique narrative within the family. As they pursue excellence in their chosen fields, the Smith-Njigba brothers exemplify the spirit of dedication and achievement, making their family proud on multiple athletic fronts.

On the football field, Jaxon’s impressive 2021 season at Ohio State speaks volumes about his potential as an NFL prospect. Despite competing alongside standout receivers like Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave, Jaxon emerged as the team’s leading receiver, with 95 catches for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns. With his remarkable collegiate career and the legacy of successful Ohio State wide receivers before him, Jaxon Smith-Njigba is poised to make a significant impact in the NFL, continuing the tradition of excellence from the Buckeyes’ receiving corps.

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In the end, as Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s NFL dreams draw near, the Smith-Njigba family celebrates the achievements of both brothers, highlighting their remarkable athletic journeys and the promise of success on their respective paths.