### Michigan Wolverines Baseball Team Announces New Head Coach: Chris Burke
**Ann Arbor, MI** — The University of Michigan has made a significant change in its baseball program, announcing the hiring of Chris Burke as the new head coach. Burke, a former MLB infielder and current ESPN analyst, takes over the role from Erik Bakich, who left to join the University of Florida as their head coach.
Burke, a Michigan native, brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a commentator. His playing career includes stints with the Houston Astros, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Chicago White Sox. Known for his strong defensive skills and leadership, Burke also has extensive experience in analyzing and broadcasting baseball at the collegiate and professional levels.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chris Burke back to Michigan,” said Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel. “Chris is not only a talented baseball mind but also a person with deep connections to our university and the state of Michigan. His knowledge of the game and his passion for developing players make him an ideal fit for our program.”
Burke’s appointment comes after a successful tenure for Bakich, who led the Wolverines to the College World Series in 2019 and consistently built a competitive team. The Wolverines have been a strong program in recent years, and Burke’s hiring is seen as a move to continue that momentum and build on the program’s success.
“I’m incredibly excited to return to Michigan and lead the baseball program,” Burke said in a statement. “The opportunity to coach at my alma mater and contribute to a program with such a rich tradition is a dream come true. I look forward to working with the players and helping them achieve their goals on and off the field.”
As a player, Burke was known for his versatility and leadership. He played a key role in the 2004 MLB Draft, where he was selected in the first round by the Houston Astros. Over his career, he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication, traits that he is expected to bring to his new role as head coach.
The Michigan baseball program is expected to benefit from Burke’s extensive experience and fresh perspective. His hiring signals a new chapter for the Wolverines, who are looking to maintain their competitive edge in the Big Ten and beyond.
The Wolverines are preparing for the upcoming season with high expectations. Burke’s first task will be to assemble a strong coaching staff and recruit top talent to continue building a successful program. The team’s fans and alumni are eager to see the direction Burke will take the program and how his leadership will impact the team’s performance.
Burke’s hiring also comes with a focus on enhancing player development and fostering a winning culture. The Wolverines are aiming to build on their recent successes and establish themselves as a perennial contender in college baseball.
As the new season approaches, anticipation is building around Burke’s debut as the head coach. Michigan baseball fans are looking forward to seeing how the program evolves under his leadership and how Burke’s expertise will translate into success on the field.
With Chris Burke at the helm, the Michigan Wolverines are poised for an exciting new era in their baseball program, and the upcoming season promises to be one filled with both hope and high expectations.
