Alabama’s Former Gold Glove Shortstop Notches First MLB Home Run

PITTSBURGH, Pa.-  Former Crimson Tide shortstop Jim Jarvis hit the first home run of his MLB career on Thursday, helping Atlanta secure a 10-5 win over the Pittsburgh.

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Jarvis stood out, going 3-for-5 with a single, a double, and a two-run home run in the fourth inning, giving the Braves a 5-2 lead heading into the bottom of the frame.

Jarvis spent four seasons in Tuscaloosa (2020-2023), posting a .262 batting average with 180 hits, 10 home runs, and 75 RBIs. In his senior year, he earned the ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove at shortstop with a .965 fielding percentage and helped lead Alabama to the 2023 Super Regionals.

The San Diego native was drafted in the 11th round of the 2023 MLB draft by the Detroit Tigers and spent the next three seasons in the minor leagues. He was called up to the majors by Atlanta in May, after Braves starting shortstop Ha-Seong Kim suffered a finger injury. Jarvis appeared in two games, going 1-for-5 at the plate, before returning to Gwinnett, the Braves’ Triple-A affiliate.

Jarvis was recalled from Gwinnett on July 2 after Kim was placed on the 10-day injured list with the same finger injury from May. With backup shortstop Jorge Mateo struggling at the plate, Jarvis has earned more playing time and made the most of his opportunity in Atlanta’s win over Pittsburgh.

If Jarvis can maintain his strong start, batting .292 in 24 at-bats with a .320 on-base percentage and three RBIs over seven big league games, he could find himself with a permanent roster spot.

Micah Nichols covers Alabama baseball, football, and basketball for Tide100.9. Follow @Micahnichols0 on X for in-game updates, highlights, and more Crimson Tide content.