Michael Zito brings Rice a gritty, glove-first middle-infield spark
After a promising 2025 breakout, Michael Zito was limited in 2026 while rehabbing from surgery, but his Rice profile still pops: he earned AAC All-Freshman honors in 2025, was a steady shortstop, and hit .276 with 5 home runs, 23 RBI, and 11 steals while ranking among the Owls’ most reliable bats in conference play. The must-care angle? He blends defensive value, contact ability, and competitive edge, plus he’s already shown he can win big moments—like his walk-off homer vs. USC in 2025. He looks like a fit for teams valuing athletic, high-IQ infield play with upside.
