Since Jonathan Kim and Greg Pace Jr., both sophomore outfielders, got sidelined by injuries three weeks ago, the Michigan baseball team has been grappling with maintaining a steady defensive strategy, experimenting with different lineups. Surprisingly, this constant rotation might offer a solution for the Wolverines, potentially benefiting their offense as well.
The key figure in this adaptability is Mitch Voit.
Lately, the sophomore first baseman and right-hander has been assigned various outfield positions. During the recent game against Michigan State, he showcased his agility in right field, making several remarkable plays that prevented runs. Michigan coach Tracy Smith emphasized Voit’s versatility, describing him as a true baseball player who can be deployed anywhere on the field. This flexibility is essential given the current circumstances the team faces. Voit’s willingness to contribute wherever needed has been commendable.
When Voit takes up his weekly pitching duties or plays in the outfield, senior Dylan Stanton steps in at first base. Stanton has seized the opportunity for more playing time since Voit’s shift to the outfield, demonstrating his abilities. His strong performances, including two multi-hit games against Penn State last weekend, played a significant role in Michigan’s first series victory of the season. Although Stanton’s statistics may not be extraordinary, he has proven himself as a valuable addition to Michigan’s lineup.
The Wolverines have also gleaned insights from the center field rotation, particularly regarding their freshman outfielders.
AJ Garcia, for instance, has transitioned from minimal playing time to a starting role. Despite the possibility of this being temporary until Kim and Pace recover, Garcia has already exhibited his potential. With impressive speed and agility, he can both secure infield hits and chase down long fly balls. Although his playing time has been limited, Garcia has shown promise, boasting a 7-for-14 hitting record with a 1.182 OPS. He has also displayed proficiency in bunting, adding another dimension to his offensive arsenal. Garcia’s emergence offers the team flexibility, especially in critical situations like executing a squeeze play.
Smith acknowledged Garcia’s contributions, emphasizing his stellar defensive performance in center field and his offensive capabilities, including base stealing. This bodes well for the team’s future needs.
With Garcia excelling in center field and Voit solidifying the right, Smith has found reliable replacements for Kim and Pace. Furthermore, as Smith continues to experiment with lineups and defensive arrangements, other players have received more playing time. Freshmen Collin Priest and Joonsung Park, in particular, have showcased their potential at the plate. Priest, known for his clutch performances, delivered a walk-off home run against San Diego, while Park contributed with an RBI double and disciplined plate appearances against Michigan State.
Smith sees the silver lining in giving these players game experience early in the season, anticipating it will pay dividends both immediately and in the future.
Despite the setback of losing Kim and Pace to injuries, the emergence of freshmen like Garcia, coupled with the contributions of Voit and Stanton, offers consolation for the Wolverines. While the absence of key outfielders is felt, Michigan can take comfort in the depth of talent capable of stepping up in their absence.
