Michigan Baseball: Jimmy Obertop returns from injury

ANN ARBOR, MI — After missing 36 games with an arm injury, a veteran slugger has finally returned to the Michigan baseball lineup. Senior catcher Jimmy Obertop played his first game of the 2023 season this Friday.

Positive Clubhouse Presence

Last year, Obertop had his most productive season at the plate. Starting most of the season at catcher, Obertop held a .387 on-base percentage and a .511 slugging percentage. Obertop finished the season with 15 home runs and 54 runs batted in.

Over the off-season, Obertop entered the transfer portal but decided to stay with Michigan baseball. After suffering a pre-season arm injury, Obertop was forced to sit out entering the 2023 season.

While recovering, Obertop remained a positive clubhouse presence by coaching first base. This veteran presence was important for a Michigan baseball team packed with young talent.

“We want him to be a part of it,” said head coach Tracy Smith when asked about Obertop coaching first. Smith emphasized his clubhouse role, saying “He’s always been there. Always been around contributing to wins, every single game this season. He just hadn’t been on the field doing it.”

Obertop’s Return

This Friday, Jimmy Obertop returned to the Michigan baseball lineup in the first of three home games against the rival Michigan State Spartans. After striking out in his first at-bat, Obertop bounced back and collected his first hit of the season in the fourth inning. He finished the day one for three with a walk and a single.

“Coaching first is fun, but I’d rather play all day,” said Obertop after his start. Obertop mentioned how coaching first made him less nervous for his first start back. “I was pretty even-keeled. I’ve been watching from first and it’s slowed the game down a lot, so thanks to skip for letting me do that.”

Obertop will play again on Saturday as the Wolverines finish their series against the Spartans. Michigan baseball will play Saturday at 2 PM ET and Sunday at 1 PM ET.

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