HARRISONBURG, Va. – James Madison head baseball coach Marlin Ikenberry has announced the elevation of Michael Roberts from assistant coach to associate head coach on Thursday morning.
“I am excited for Michael in this promotion,” said Ikenberry. “Michael did a fantastic job in helping us navigate through the first season in the Sun Belt. He embodies what it means to be a part of this program. While new to the dugout in Harrisonburg, we have spent a better part of eight seasons together in the dugout. Our expectations continue to grow to win a Sun Belt championship.”
Working primarily with the hitters, Roberts made an immediate impact in his first season in Harrisonburg. The Dukes finished the season 31-25, the most wins since 2019, and also won the most league games in a season since 2011 by picking up 15 Sun Belt Conference victories. As a team, the Dukes hit .298 for their highest team batting average since 2013. Graduate Jack Cone and sophomore Fenwick Trimble both earned All-Sun Belt Conference and All-State honors after each hit over .320 at the plate and recorded at least 20 doubles.
“I appreciate Coach Ikenberry’s trust in me, for his mentorship, and for recognizing my hard work with JMU’s baseball program,” said Roberts. “I’m incredibly excited for this opportunity, and I’m look forward to serving as associate head coach for JMU baseball.”
Overall, the Dukes improved in almost all offensive and defensive categories as a team from 2022 to 2023 with Roberts leading the way.
— JMU Athletics —
