Player Intro: Bobby Boser

One of the most interesting players who’s new to the Gators this year is Bobby Boser. The senior is yet to have a single at bat in Orange and Blue; instead, he’s played for the University of South Florida Bulls in Tampa. Based on practice scrimmages, the third baseman could be an immediate slot-in for the Gators at third, and he’s definitely one of the most important players to watch before the upcoming season.

Boser’s hometown is Wesley Chapel, Florida, where he played for Wiregrass Ranch High School. He was a top infielder in his recruiting class, being ranked the #14 shortstop in the state of Florida, while being the #104 nationally. The right-handed batter hit for a .296 batting average in his final year in high school, but his real value came in his utility play. Boser can play anywhere on the field, and he’s proven it.

In his first season with the Bulls, Boser started 24 games but competed in 38. He mostly started at 2nd and 1st base, but he also had starts at shortstop, left field, right field, and as a designated hitter. His first season in Tampa was disappointing from a batting perspective, only hitting .196. Boser didn’t let this dissuade him though, as he came right back for an incredible sophomore season: he slashed .323/.445/.621 on 52 starts and on his way to an All-AAC selection.

Photo of Bobby Boser from Florida Baseball

Boser would never slow down, having a similarly outstanding junior season, even if it was cut short due to an unfortunate incident where Boser broke his hamate bone in his hand. At the end of the year, it only made sense that he transfer to a bigger school, and he rightfully chose to come to the biggest college baseball program in the world. Boser overall was an infield utility man at USF, but that isn’t exactly how the Gators might use him. From the spring scrimmages, it’s become clear that Boser seems to have carved out a role for himself at third base. Even if he doesn’t find himself starting there, Boser is sure to start in some capacity for the Gators and is a valuable transfer addition in what could prove to be an incredibly fruitful year for the Gators.