Shortstop is another position of strength for Florida heading into 2023 with senior [autotag]Josh Rivera[/autotag] locked into the starting spot and plenty of talented depth options behind him.
Rivera could have gone pro a year ago, but he opted to return for another season as Florida’s starting shortstop. He’s started 131 games for the Gators over the last three years, so the job is his to lose. There’s already MLB interest surrounding Rivera, but he could earn himself a serious paycheck if he puts it all together for the first time.
While it does give Florida a clear starter at shortstop, Rivera’s return has caused a minor log jam in the infield. With Colby Halter and Rivera holding down the left side of the diamond, [autotag]Deric Fabian[/autotag] is left fighting for a starting spot at first base or second and will most likely be used in a utility role sending on the matchup. If Rivera’s glove and bat suffer, Fabian is the one who will get a chance to replace him at short, though.