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Jason Smith will never be what we call a “star” in the big leagues. The Meridian native and former Meridian Community College infielder has bounced around the majors since 2001, when he made his debut with the Chicago Cubs five long years after they drafted him (in the 23rd round). In 257 big league games with seven different teams, Smith has a .221 average. Not star material. But so what? Isn’t it enough to have played the game? To have put on a big league uniform, walked through a big league clubhouse, stood in a big league ballpark for the playing of the national anthem? For those of us who once chashed that dream and never came close to touching it, yes, that would be enough. Smith, 31, was cut loose by the Kansas City Royals last week and is now a free agent, hoping, I’m reasonably sure, to catch on with somebody before spring training starts. A left-handed hitter who can play a number of positions, Smith may still have some utility. He has had some shining moments. In 2004 with Detroit he hit five homers and drove in 19 runs in 155 at-bats. In 2006 with Colorado, he hit five homers in just 99 ABs and batted .263. So Smith was never a star … big deal. He put on the uniform, walked through the clubhouse, heard the anthem. He played the game. Here’s hoping he gets to play some more.