Charlie O'Brien (Baseball, 1980-82)
The first in a line of great Shocker catchers during the Gene Stephenson era. Noted for his defensive prowess and signal-calling ability, he blossomed into offensive star in 1982. His 25 home runs, 116 RBI and .359 batting average helped propel the Shockers to their first College World Series appearance.
That home run total established a team record that stood for six seasons, while his RBI production ranks as third-most in a season. Guided a pitching staff in 1982 that posted an NCAA-record 73 wins while leading the nation with a 2.53 earned run average and 17 shutouts.
He appeared in all 87 of the Shockersą games that season.
His .976 career fielding percentage is a Shocker record.
He assisted on 65 putouts in 1982, a Shocker mark for catchers.
Named a first-team All-American in 1982 by All-America Baseball News magazine and was also honored as the Most Valuable Player at the NCAA South Regional.
He shares team records for most doubles in a game (3) and triples in a contest (2).
Drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1982. Played in the major leagues for the Brewers, New York Mets and Atlanta Braves. Inducted, 1995.
