Casey Akenberger Director of Athletic Performance/Munn | Michigan State Spartan Athletics Website
Casey Akenberger Director of Athletic Performance/Munn | Michigan State Spartan Athletics Website
Michigan State University's baseball team is preparing to conclude its 2024 regular season, with redshirt senior outfielder Greg Ziegler playing a pivotal role. Ziegler's final college baseball season began with an unexpected challenge when he experienced wrist pain in December 2023, which escalated to a hand injury by January 2024.
"One swing, I kind of just felt like it gave out," said Ziegler, recalling the moment he realized something was wrong. An X-ray revealed a broken bone requiring surgery, sidelining him for the first 16 games of the season.
Ziegler has faced adversity before, having transferred twice during his college career—from Missouri State to Johnson Community College in 2021 and then to Michigan State. He plans to pursue a chiropractic career after completing his kinesiology degree.
MSU head coach Jake Boss Jr. described Ziegler's injury as "one of those flukish-type of injuries." He commended Ziegler for not rushing his recovery: "He backed off when he needed to back off, he listened to the experts, and we got him back as soon as we could."
Despite initial setbacks, Ziegler's passion for baseball grew during his recovery. "Just remembering both times that the game was taken away from me that this isn't going to last forever," said Ziegler.
Upon returning in early March, Ziegler initially contributed as a pinch runner but quickly became a key player with the highest batting average on the team at .371. His performance included hits in 10 out of his first 12 games and a notable 10-game hitting streak from April 9-27.
Reflecting on his time away from play due to injury, Ziegler noted its impact on his success: "I think a lot of it is observing the way that people go about things in the game."
The Spartans are set to finish their regular season with four games remaining. They face Eastern Michigan on May 14 at McLane Stadium at Kobs Field and host Nebraska for a three-game series from May 16-18. The final game will be MSU's Senior Day with pre-game ceremonies honoring senior players and managers.
Fans can follow MSU baseball through various platforms provided by MSUSpartans.com.
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