C A L L E R -T I M E S
ÂŤ Sunday, March 3, 2013 ÂŤ 1X
2013 HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW
GEORGE TULEY/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES
New Moody head coach Joe Curiel will have two of South Texas’ top baseball prospects in junior pitcher Kenneth Saenz (left) and catcher Michael Cantu (right).
AIMING HIGH
â– Even with new faces, Moody holds same lofty goals By Lee Goddard goddardl@caller.com 361-886-3613
Michael Cantu has firsthand knowledge of high expectations. As a freshman at Carroll, he was put into a lineup with almost everyone returning from a state-title team. Now, after his father was hired as the athletic coordinator at Moody, Cantu, a junior, sees the passion and expectations that come with one of the city’s most storied baseball programs.
The Trojans may have had a coaching change — something that has occurred less than a handful of times the past four decades — but Moody fans still set the bar high, especially for a team that returns all but a few starters and plugs Cantu into the lineup as the starting catcher and No. 2 pitcher. “I think at Carroll, we had the same expectations — get back to the state tournament. I don’t see anything different,� Cantu said. “The fans at Carroll
They expect us to be (in the state tournament) every year. As we told (the players), they expect us to be a great team. They all work together. It’s that camaraderie — they encourage and push each other. That’s a great thing as a coach.� Joe Curiel, Moody head coach
are awesome. And I remember growing up and seeing Moody fans, and
they sold out every game. The fans at Moody, they embrace you, and I love it.�
The love will be reciprocated, with Cantu coming over from Carroll. With Cantu stepping right in for Victor Rodela, who also served as the catcher and No. 2 pitcher last season, there’s no reason to believe the expectations won’t be off the charts. The Trojans have one of the top pitchers in lefty Kenneth Saenz. They return outfielders J.D. Garcia, Johnny Gonzalez, J.D. Lozano and Tres Luna. Ricky Gonzalez moves third base to first, and
there is so much depth that it’s difficult to imagine there will be a rough transition in replacing Rodela, second baseman Juan Farias, shortstop Cody Perez and third baseman-catcher Adam Esquivel. So, while expectations can get out of hand, they are embraced by the players. “Expectations are always to go out and win,� said Saenz, who also plays the outfield. “With our fan base, we’re expected
See MOODY, 3X
GROWING PAINS
â– Untested players take up mantle for Carroll Tigers By Greg Rajan rajang@caller.com 361-886-3702
PHOTOS BY GEORGE TULEY/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES
Junior Isaiah Lybarger is expected to play a big role on the mound for Carroll this season.
For coach Lee Yeager, filling out the Carroll baseball lineup card the past three years was something he could do in his sleep. The names easily rolled off the tongue. Chris Cano. Josh Cruz. O’Shea Dumes. Jason Franco. Courtney Hawkins. Trey Rodriguez. That sextet formed the nucleus of Carroll’s 2010 Class 5A championship team and two more state semifi nal squads, making the Tigers only the second large-school program to make three straight state tournaments. This season, however, brings a brave new world for Yeager, whose only returnee with starting experience is senior first baseman
Brandon Burns, who mostly was a defensive specialist. Bringing back catcher Michael Cantu would’ve provided a cornerstone, but the junior is at Moody after joining his father Mike, the Trojans’ football coach. “It’s hard, because those last three years, we’ve been fortunate enough to kind of know (what we’ve got),� Yeager said. “This year, it’s been up for grabs. Some guys have stepped up and taken jobs and some other guys, I don’t know if they knew we were giving them out or not. “It’s been a good situation from the competition standpoint. But certainly, it’s hectic for us to try to put the right guys on the field.� For Carroll fans whose expectations have soared with the program’s recent success, that means expect
Carroll senior Brandon Burns (left), known for his defense at first base the past two years, will be looked to for offensive contributions as well this season.
some growing pains. But that’s not to say the cupboard is bare, talent-wise. Junior pitcher/shortstop
Rene Pineda made an impact on the varsity last year
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C A L L E R -T I M E S
2013 HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW CLASS 5A/District 28
King’s ‘T.I.’ crafted to keep playoff string alive ■■Mustangs
seek next step in postseason By Greg Rajan rajang@caller.com 361-886-3702
King’s baseball program undoubtedly has made strides in recent years. The Mustangs have been in the Class 5A playoffs for three years running, a first for the program since 2002-04. Now, the hope is to take the next step and make some noise in the postseason. Last year’s run ended with an area-round loss to San Antonio Churchill. But in the early part of this season, the Mustangs have flexed some early muscle. That was evidenced when they went to Laredo’s Border Olympics and knocked off Laredo Alexander, last year’s Region IV-5A finalist that opened this season ranked third in the state. That may have raised some eyebrows to outsiders but probably not for those donning the Mustangs’ green and white. “I feel like we have a good team, and we can be better than last year,” King coach Gabriel Perez said. “I feel this is our year to the do the best we can and see what happens. We’re pretty optimistic about what we can do.” Perez certainly has reason to be optimistic. He returns seven players with starting experience from last year’s District 28-5A runner-up. Among them are senior outfielder Eric Perez, a second-team All-South Texas selection last year, and senior shortstop Justin Sanchez, who was on the All-South Texas third team. They’re joined once again by the likes of senior catcher Todd Wilkinson, senior third baseman/ pitcher Benny Zamudio, senior second baseman Troy Garza and junior outfield-
photos by GEORGE TULEY/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES
Pitcher/third baseman Benny Zamudio is among seven King returnees with starting experience.
King Mustangs Coach: Gabriel Perez Players to watch: Eric Perez, OF, sr.; Justin Sanchez, P/SS, sr.; Todd Wilkinson, C, sr.; Benny Zamudio, 3B, sr.; Troy Garza, 2B, sr,; Marcus Zamudio, OF, jr.; Dominque Lane, OF, jr.; Jonathan Contreras, P/IF; Matt Morin, SS, soph. 2012 record: 21-10 (second in District 28-5A)
ers Dominique Lane and Marcus Zamudio. Junior pitcher/infielder Jonathan Contreras, sidelined with an injury last season, also is expected to
I feel like we have a good team and we can be better than last year. I feel this is our year to the do the best we can and see what happens. We’re pretty optimistic about what we can do.”
King’s Eric Perez is looking to build on a strong 2012 that saw him net second-team honors on the All-South Texas squad.
Gabriel Perez, King head coach
contribute, as is sophomore shortstop Matt Morin, who’ll play when Sanchez pitches. King’s core group has helped instill a mindset among the Mustangs focusing on team unity, with the letters “T.I.,” short for “total investment,” becoming a staple around the Mustangs’ diamond. “That’s part me, but the players have taken over
the role for the coaches,” Gabriel Perez said of raising expectations. “They’re trying to set the tone for the rest of the program. It’s partly coaching, but it’s on the players, too. They want to build something here, and they know they are. “We’re a complete unit — we have great camaraderie through the team. It’s a solid ballclub is what it is.”
CARROLL from 1X
and is expected to assume a bigger role this year. Burns, the steady defensive presence at first who rarely batted the past two years, will be counted on more offensively. Third baseman/pitcher Andrew Heitkamp, another senior, will be moved into an everyday role as well. Some of the players who have scant varsity experience already have shown promise in the early season. At the fore is junior pitcher/outfielder Isaiah Lybarger. The righthander has showed a live arm, something Yeager is happy to see after losing his two top two hurlers in Hawkins, a first-round draft choice of the Chicago White Sox as an outfielder, and Dumes, who, along with Cano, now
GEORGE TULEY/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES
Carroll’s Rene Pineda was a contributor on a state semifinalist as a sophomore and is expected to be a key cog on this year’s squad as one of the Tigers’ veterans.
Carroll Tigers Coach: Lee Yeager Players to watch: Brandon Burns, 1B, sr.; Andrew Heitkamp, P/3B, sr.; Rene Pineda, P/SS, jr.; Isaiah Lybarger, P/OF, jr.; Zach Alaniz, OF, soph.; Ryan Benavidez, P/OF, jr.; Cory Gallegos, C, jr.; Michael Berglund, C, fr. 2012 record: 32-5 (first in District 28-5A)
plays for Texas A&MCorpus Christi. “He’s really distanced himself a little bit from the pack,” Yeager said of Lybarger. “He’s a guy we’re going to lean on heavily to pitch for us.” Underclassmen also will get a chance, with sophomore outfielder Zach Alaniz and freshman catcher Michael Berglund showing some early offensive prowess.
And while the names on this year’s roster are certainly different from the linchpins of the recent past, Yeager said the two groups have plenty in common. “The one thing I see that’s so similar is they’re so coachable,” Yeager said. “The other way I think they’re very similar is they’re very closeknit. They hang out together, and everybody seems to like each other. That’s kind of how that 2010 team was. They really loved each other and competed so hard and enjoyed being around each other. “There are some things I see in these guys that remind me of that bunch. We just have to (develop) some of these guys. Talent-wise, it may not be quite as heavy, but certainly the desire, effort and camaraderie are the same.”
The one thing I see that’s so similar is they’re so coachable. The other way I think they’re very similar is they’re very close-knit. They hang out together and everybody seems to like each other. That’s kind of how that 2010 team was. They really loved each other and competed so hard and enjoyed being around each other.”
Lee Yeager, Carroll head coach
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C A L L E R -T I M E S
« Sunday, March 3, 2013 « 3X
2013 HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW CLASS 4A/District 31
photos by Michael Zamora/Caller-Times
Flour Bluff’s Will Mendiola has showed the ability to make things happen on the bases in recent seasons.
More questions than answers greet Flour Bluff Mims to be key leaders for Hornets squad By Lee Goddard goddardl@caller.com 361-886-3613
Ron Weikum started last year with so few questions. He begins this season with so few answers. Not that the roster is bare, but the Flour Bluff coach lost quite a few players from last season’s regional quarterfinal team, including his one-two pitching punch of Lucas Humpal and Ross Carter. So, the opportunities are there for the taking. “When you lose the arms we had last year, that’s what’s first and
foremost — make sure we have solid pitching to help us out,” Weikum said. “We’ve been looking at seven or eight different kids.” There are a few experienced players in that group, including catcher Will Mendiola, shortstop Kolton Mims and outfielder Tyler Hass. Weikum also added that a couple of sophomores — Matt Martinez and Diego Montemayor — could chip in. Mims, to start the season, will get the call as the No. 1 starter. Mendiola is valuable behind the plate but if he emerges as the No. 1 or No. 2 hurler, Weikum will shuffle his lineup. If nothing else, Weikum knows his leaders. Mims, a quarterback on the football team, and Mendiola, a receiver in football, combined for a spectacular play that saved the Hornets’
Flour Bluff shortstop Kolton Mims is trying to carry his senior-year success in football to the diamond.
postseason this past year. “It’s huge. I look at Will Mendiola and he’s been a four-year starter for us,” Weikum said. “He’s been in a lot of action and a lot of playoff-type things. He goes out and pitches with confidence and plays with
MOODY
Flour Bluff Hornets Coach: Ron Weikum Players to watch: P/SS Kolton Mims, sr.; C/P Will Mendiola, sr.; OF/P Tyler Hass, jr.; 1B/P Rivers Ewing, jr.; P/OF Matt Martinez, soph.; INF Johnny Luby, jr.; OF Garrett Foster, sr.; P Diego Montemayor, soph. 2012 record: 20-11 (third, District 31-4A)
we could find one. In scrimmages, we’ve had some good things happen but also have had some things happen that have caused me to lose even more hair than I’ve already lost. The lineup (this week) might not be the same in one in two weeks. It’s probably going to take a while for us to anchor our lineup.”
Moody Trojans
from 1X
to win, and we get out and do what we are supposed to do. The expectations are sometimes a little challenging. Really, it doesn’t affect me much because I want to go out and win anyway.” Joe Curiel said it was an honor to take over as coach for Corky Gallegos on a full-time basis. Curiel briefly had the reins last season when Gallegos was suspended for almost a month, and Moody didn’t miss a beat. Curiel has been an assistant at some of the area’s programs, including Alice. So he knows what is expected. At the same time, the way players are brought up and taught the Trojans’ way helps make for a smooth transition. “The players have great work ethics,” Curiel said. “Adding some discipline is a key factor in keeping them in line,
confidence. Look at what he and Kolton did in football, and that shows you how they play with pressure.” Aside from Mendiola, Mims, Hass and first baseman Rivers Ewing, the lineup is in a bit of flux as well. The team lost
first-team all-district selection Ryan Fitzgerald as well as second-teamer Adam Ramos, depleting the outfield a bit. Humpal and Carter also were as effective offensively as when pitching. Senior Nebraska-transfer Garrett Foster hopes to help fill the outfield void. Junior infielder Johnny Luby could be a factor after a strong sophomore season if he heals from a football injury. He’s expected back in mid-March. “Right now, we’re really trying to fight through different things,” Weikum said. “We’ve got a lot of kids who don’t have a lot of varsity-type experience. We’re just giving those kids as many opportunities as we can for them to find their way through it and gain confidence. “If I had to pick a strength, I don’t know if
Tres Luna, making this sliding catch in right field last season, is yet another returnee for a Moody team expected to vie for Region IV-4A bragging rights.
not just the baseball field but the grades. I played the game, and I’m an old-school guy in getting things done. “They expect us to be (in the state tournament) every year. As we told (the players), they expect us to be a great team. They all work together. It’s that camaraderie — they encourage and push each other. That’s a great thing as a coach.” Curiel may be oldschool, but that doesn’t
mean he won’t be able to connect with players. “It’s fair to say it’s going to be Moody with their depth and their add-on from Carroll,” Alice coach Victor Escamilla said. “Coach Curiel is a baseball guy. He knows how to relate to kids really well.” Curiel expects a versatile team with many players who can slide into multiple positions, including Cantu, Saenz and Johnny Gonzalez,
Coach: Joe Curiel Players to watch: DH Benjamin Garcia, sr.; CF J.D. Garcia, sr.; LF J.D. Lozano, sr.; C Aaron Salinas, sr.; C/P Michael Cantu, jr.; P/OF Johnny Gonzalez, jr.; 1B/3B Ricky Gonzalez, jr.; OF/P Tres Luna, jr.; 2B Scott Olivo, jr.; P/OF Kenneth Saenz, jr.; DH/P Marc Franco, soph.; 2B Aaron Hernandez, soph. 2012 record: 27-5 (first, District 31-4A)
who had a 5-1 record as a pitcher last season, as well as Ricky Gonzalez. Aaron Hernandez and Scott Olivo will compete for the second base job, while Ben Garcia and Mark Blanco, who also pitches, will vie for the designated hitter’s role. With all that, it should be any easy transition for Cantu — from one place with high standards on the field to another.
photos by GEORGE TULEY/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES
J.D. Garcia provided a reliable bat for the Trojans last season and figures to be a contributor again this year.
“Going from one powerhouse to another, they preach the same principles,” he said. “It’s great when you can go from
one school to another, and they can be so welcoming. It’s like I’ve been here my whole life, and it’s been a pleasure.”
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Mar. 5
Victoria East vs Carroll, 6:30 Robstown vs Moody, 6:30 Banquete vs Port Lavaca Calhoun, 6:30 MIRA’S Classic - Final Day Semifinal, noon Semifinal, 2:30 Final, 5:00 Victoria West vs Flour Bluff, 6:30
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Alice vs Gregory-Portland, 6:30 Bishop vs Sinton, 6:30 Ingleside vs West Oso, 7:00 Woodsboro vs Port Aransas, 6:30 Miller vs Ray, 6:30 Calallen vs Carroll, 2:00 Laredo Alexander vs Carroll (30 minutes after game 1)
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C A L L E R -T I M E S
2013 HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW CLASS 4A/DISTRICT 31
Scrappy Ray wants to build on Cinderella run ■■Pitching the
key for young Texans squad
By Lee Goddard goddardl@caller.com 361-886-3613
GEORGE TULEY/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES
The Texans’ Rudy Trevino is a candidate to eat up innings in the Ray rotation.
Mario DeLeon won’t shy away from his Ray baseball team being labeled scrappy. That’s the word most often used by opposing coaches, and it fits in the context of what the Texans accomplished last season. Ray made a late run, hit the postseason and drove to the regional quarterfinal round until Calallen halted the run. More is expected with the Texans loaded up with returning juniors on the roster this season. And Ray will continue to grind out runs and wins. “We’re not big in size or have a lot of guys who throw real hard,” said DeLeon, who has coached the Texans for 29 seasons. “We concentrate on playing good defense, moving the runners around and not beating ourselves.” That formula worked last season, especially when Ray hit a hot streak late in the year and carried it into the postseason,
Ray Texans Coach: Mario DeLeon Players to watch: P/INF Rudy Trevino, sr.; 1B/DH Colin Breckinridge, jr.; C/P Henry Hausman, SS/P Matt Marino, jr.; 2B/P Steve Sanchez, jr.; P Zach Smith, jr. 2012 record: 16-15 (fourth, District 31-4A)
eliminating Gregory-Portland along the way and twice rebounding from Game 2 defeats in best-ofthree playoff series. So, more of the same? “We’ve got several of our guys back this year,” DeLeon said. “We’re looking to get back in the same direction as we ended up last year. We started out slow, had a pretty young team and got hot at the right time. I think some of our guys that are coming back from last year have a lot of confidence and know they can play with some of the better teams around.” To make a push again, the Texans need to find some arms because, while many players are returning, not many of them pitched quality innings last season. Aaron Watts, and all-district pick last season
TODD YATES/CALLER-TIMES
Ray’s Steve Sanchez (left) is expected to play second base and is a possibility for the pitching staff as well.
with a 9-3 record, is gone after a fine high-school career. Mike Munguia, who pitched some valuable innings for the team late last season, also graduated. DeLeon is starting the year with the committee approach with his pitching staff. Rudy Trevino, who saw time during last year’s playoffs, is a candidate for the rotation. The Texans are slowly bringing along Zach Smith, who hurt his arm over the summer. Second baseman Steve Sanchez, catcher Henry Hausman and shortstop Matthew Merino could earn key innings. Several younger players could enter the mix as well. “We don’t really have a
guy we can hang our hat on yet,” DeLeon said. “It’s by committee.” Merino, Sanchez and Hausman all hold down key spots in the batting order and defensively. Colin Breckinridge, who plays first and will be a designated hitter at times, also will contribute greatly this season. But when a team plays as many close contests as Ray, it needs to develop that ability to put away games. That is something DeLeon is looking for from his offense. “We need to start getting that killer instinct,” he said. “That’s what we’ve been concentrating on the most.”
Rebuilt Alice squad hoping pieces fall into place ■■Catcher Gaza
leads way for young Coyotes By Lee Goddard goddardl@caller.com 361-886-3613
There’s a feeling of excitement — not dread — for longtime Alice coach Victor Escamilla’s latest rebuilding project. He feels the thrill of the challenge of teaching a fairly young team, along with having a senior player to give the younger guys their cues. It doesn’t necessarily mean a banner year, but it should make for an interesting season. “Youth. We’re going to have a lot of new faces out there,” the coach said. “The positive is, with youth, you have a lot of hunger. The kids have been eager to learn. It’s been exciting to go to the ballpark and see them ready to play.” Five seniors dot the Coyotes roster, among them 5-foot-7 fireplug catcher Rudy Gaza. With the losses of experienced players
Alice Coyotes Coach: Victor Escamilla Players to watch: OF Rony Chavarria, sr.; C Rudy Gaza, sr.; 3B/P Preston Valenzuela, sr.; 1B/P Chris Gonzalez, soph.; P Zach Martinez, fr. 2012 record: 9-14 (fifth, District 31-4A)
such as Aaron Duplantis, Nathan Oliver and A.J. Perez, the younger guys will need someone such as Gaza to lead the way. “He is pretty much the leader of the team,” Escamilla said. “He’s not flashy on the field, but solid and a leader in the clubhouse. They respect him because he gets out there and busts his butt. He let everybody know how important his senior season is to him.” Among older players, Escamilla also can lean on outfielder Rony Chavarria and third baseman Preston Valenzuela, who also pitches. But the underclassmen
will have the say in whether this season is a success in terms of wins and losses. Alice started freshman Zach Martinez on the mound in the season opener. Chris Gonzalez, a sophomore first baseman, probably will hold down a top-three spot in the rotation and has been the team’s best hitter leading into the season. “He’s had a dead arm, so that held him back a bit,” Escamilla said of Gonzalez. “He has the hottest stick on the team right now.” Fellow coaches in District 31-4A know Escamilla has the capability of turning the underclassmen into playoff contenders. Flour Bluff coach Ron Weikum and Moody coach Joe Curiel almost echoed each other in saying the coach knows how to be successful and always fields competitive teams. But there still are a lot of pieces that need to fall into place. Escamilla is a realist. It might be fun to watch the team grow, but there could be some growing pains along the way.
Michael Zamora/Caller-Times
Outfielder Rony Chavarria (left) and catcher Rudy Gaza will provide Alice’s roster with some veteran presence.
He is pretty much the leader of the team. He’s not flashy on the field, but solid and a leader in the clubhouse. They respect him because he gets out there and busts his butt. He let everybody know how important his senior season is to him.”
Victor Escamilla, Alice head coach, on catcher Rudy Gaza
Miller to play numbers game well in move up to 4A ■■Young Bucs
enter stacked District 31-4A By Lee Goddard goddardl@caller.com 361-886-3613
Rey Castaneda had been measuring the gradual steps taken by Miller in his previous three seasons as baseball coach. He believed his team was ready to take the next step. However, that step turned out to be going up from Class 3A to 4A.
So there’s a new challenge on Castaneda’s plate this season — keep the Buccaneers progressing on the field while being thrown into District 31-4A with the likes of Moody, Alice, Flour Bluff and Ray. “We’re still hoping to take the next step forward in 4A,” Castaneda said. “I know we’re in a tough district, but the kids have been playing summer ball and improving.” Castaneda realizes it’s a numbers game. Not necessarily the gap in enrollment between 3A schools
and 4A programs but the numbers that actually take the field. The coach estimates he will have 12 players this season — nine starters and three reserves in a given game. That makes a huge difference with something as minor as a pitching change. One player coming in from another position could necessitate a full-scale domino effect. “At 3A, we could compete a little better because we were on an even keel with the other schools,” Castaneda said. “You hate when you have to pull a
guy from second base to pitch and then have to have another guy come in and play second base. In practice, we rotate everybody around and have them play different positions. They don’t get those reps constantly at one position.” Castaneda also is dealing with a fairly young dozen, but there are a few players he believes can make a big difference for the Bucs. He can turn to four-year starter Eric Benavides at first base, while junior R.J. Rodriguez was a first-team
all-district pick in the outfield last year. Catcher Lee Ramos, a junior, is behind the plate, and senior Santana Salcido will play short and pitch. There also is hope with sophomore lefty J.J. Alvarez, who can play all the outfield spots and could emerge as one of the Bucs’ best hurlers. Castaneda knows it’s a tough task, but he still feels his team can be in the mix for the third or fourth seed. They can take that next step even after a big step up in classification. “We don’t have the 4A
Miller Buccaneers Coach: Rey Castaneda Players to watch: 1B Eric Benavides, sr.; P/ SS Santana Salcido, sr.; C Lee Ramos, jr.; OF R.J. Rodriguez, jr.; P/OF J.J. Alvarez, soph. 2012 record: 5-15 (fourth, District 31-3A)
numbers that others have,” he said. “It’s just one of those things. You have to come out and play anyway.”
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« Sunday, March 3, 2013 « 5X
2013 HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW CLASS 4A/District 30
Calallen machine will take time to roll on ■■Wildcats started season ranked No. 1 in state By Lee Goddard goddardl@caller.com 361-886-3613
The rest of the state saw a team that should be ranked No. 1. And what did Calallen coach Steve Chapman see? Just a lot of room for improvement. The Wildcats are trying to reload and make another deep postseason run. But while the team earned a top ranking in the Class 4A preseason polls, Calallen has to find replacements for key players. Even the Wildcats will take time to fill the gap left by a second-round major league draft pick such as Wyatt Mathisen. Throw in the departures of pitcher Mando Arevalo and outfielder Tyler Neslony among others and, no matter the tradition of a program, that’s a lot
to replace. “We’re going to have to improve a whole lot,” Chapman said. “We’ve got to be able to hit, score some runs and play good defense — basically the same old things as far as baseball goes. “They’re all fighting for positions now.” Of course, opponents remain skeptical. Sure they believe they can beat the Wildcats, but the team last season lost only two games and spent much of the season at No. 1 in the state — and in some national polls — until being upset in a onegame regional semifinal. Minus the regional loss, that’s about the norm at Calallen. “The first thing you have to understand about Calallen is that they’re a machine,” Gregory-Portland coach Fred Flores said. “If they lose a part,
they can go to the warehouse and get another part. It’s hard to replace a Wyatt Mathisen, but they have kids that can help replace him. They may not have that name (player), but it’s still hard to match up against them.” There are some hints of the rebuilding process moving along with assembly-line efficiency. Chapman expects pitching to be a strong point despite the losses of Mathisen and Arevalo, who combined to go 21-1 with a 1.06 earned-run average. Lee May Gonzalez will assume more time on the hill, while sophomore Dylan Duarte, senior transfer Sebastian Palacios and junior Norman Medina make for a deep staff. Gonzalez has extensive varsity experience. The rest … not so much.
Calallen Wildcats Coach: Steve Chapman Players to watch: 3B/2B Christian Cantu, sr.; OF Preston Dorsey, sr.; SS/2B/P Lee May Gonzalez, sr.; P Sebastian Palacios, sr.; 1B/3B Justice Flores, jr.; OF Mikey Leal, jr.; P Norman Medina jr.; IF Cullen Vaught, jr.; P Dylan Duarte, soph.; OF Chase Whetsel, soph. 2012 record: 33-2 (first, District 31-4A)
“Everybody’s pretty unproven, but I think our pitching has done well” Chapman said. “Norman is going to be a good pitcher. He just needs a lot of time on the mound.” It may take some time to make up for the numbers lost with Neslony and Mathisen, who played shortstop when he wasn’t pitching. Both hit well above .400. They
Michael Zamora/Caller-Times
Calallen’s Lee May Gonzalez (right), who’s been primarily an infielder, should see more time on the mound this season after the Wildcats lost some top arms.
combined for 31 steals, 10 home runs and 81 runs. The losses of first baseman Jimmy Roche and designated hitter Tate Bammert also siphon away some offensive production. Senior outfielder Preston Dorsey is coming off a second big statistical season in a row after hitting .388 with 26 runs and
G-P expects big things from seniors ■■Geiser, Erwin
grow into roles as team leaders By Lee Goddard goddardl@caller.com 361-886-3613
They grow up so fast. Gregory-Portland coach Fred Flores looks at some of his players and still sees them as freshmen. But two of those players in particular are now seniors who, Flores believes, are ready to lead the Wildcats to big things this season. Pitcher Travis Geiser, who will be headed to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi next season, and outfielder and leadoff hitter Mickie
Erwin will be the catalysts for what Flores calls a young but experienced team. Both are four-year starters. “I’m really excited about this year,” Flores said. “We’re bringing back a bunch of experienced players, but I look at them and still see them as freshmen.” Geiser heads up a deep pitching staff with lefthander Ruben Martinez, followed by Geiser’s younger brother Tanner. Also chipping in are junior Dustin Herrera and Triston Busse, a sophomore transfer from Mission Sharyland. The corps is coached by former Calallen standout Kehr Schulz. “Ruben has a rubber arm and the nerves of a thief,” Flores said. “We know with
T-M has odd mix, but playoffs are possible ■■Getting timely
hits will be key for Warriors By Lee Goddard goddardl@caller.com 361-886-3613
Gregory-Portland outfielder Mickie Erwin is a four-year starter who’ll be looked to as a catalyst in the leadoff spot.
Kehr the mound is going to be solid.” Flores likes the way his offense sets up, with a fast, scratch-out-runs type of team. The Geisers both add some power, while third
TulosoMidway Warriors Coach: Mike Davila Players to watch: UT Jeremy Brittain, sr.; 2B Ben Garcia, sr.; CF Chris Martinets, sr.; OF Ryan Villalone, sr.; C/P Colton Wright, sr.; 3B/C Nathan Freitag, soph.; Nick Galaviz, soph.; OF/P Mason Hellums, soph.; P/ OF Caleb Rozypal, soph. 2012 record: 12-15 (seventh, District 31-4A)
in corner outfield spot and Nathan Freitag, the district Freshman of the Year last season, will move between third and catcher. Gregory-Portland coach Fred Flores, one of the rivals in a district that includes Calallen and Victoria East and Victoria West, said the Warriors have one of the best coaching staffs and opponents cannot make mistakes against T-M because they will pay dearly. Davila said the style this year will be small ball and capitalizing off those mistakes, which he hopes gets his team to May. “We always tell everyone that we’re a scrappy little group,” Davila said. “We want to get one run an inning. If we get two, it’s a bonus. But we have to scratch them out.”
baseman and designated hitter Blane Hammond has been playing well. Erwin sets the tone at the top of the order and exemplifies the style of play, while Martinez is similarly
GregoryPortland Wildcats Coach: Fred Flores Players to watch: LF Mickie Erwin, sr.; P/ SS Travis Geiser, sr.; RF/P Tanner Geiser, jr.; P Dustin Herrera, jr.; CF/P Ruben Martinez, jr.; P Triston Busse, soph.; 3B/DH Blane Hammond, soph. 2012 record: 17-13 (third, District 30-4A)
Midway and the Victoria schools — East and West — present challenges. “It’s going to be a district where you have to play every inning,” Flores said. “We recognize that Calallen and the Victoria schools are good programs. We’ve got good teams in the district, but our kids are ready to go.”
Beeville hopes to have all the right moves in tough district ■■Trojans to
shuffle talent around diamond
By Lee Goddard goddardl@caller.com 361-886-3613
The baseball diamond has become a chessboard for Beeville coach Tom Carrera. The Trojans may suit up only 18 players this season, and he has four that he knows can keep the team in contention. So that means a lot of movable — but few expendable — pieces as far as Beeville is concerned. And a lot of those pieces will be new to this level of competition. “I’m still trying to play chess with those guys,” Carrera said. “For some reason, we are really hurting with numbers. I’m afraid we might not have a JV or freshman team this year. We’re talking about freshmen kids that last year
played Little League and now they have to step in and play Sinton and Calallen.” That’s a tall order, but Carerra remains upbeat that his team can hold its own in District 30-4A, which includes Calallen, Gregory-Portland, TulosoMidway and the Victorias — East and West. While the numbers hardly are in Carrera’s favor, four stand out. This is where the chess moves come into play. Sophomore Cameron Kremers, the quarterback on the football team, stands 6-foot-6 and will be a lefthanded ace, play first base and wind up in the outfield from time to time. Senior Clay Blackwell will pitch and play short and third. Joe Rey Garza, another senior, will roam the middle infield. At least junior Daniel Amador seems to be entrenched at catcher. The rest of the pieces are up in the air. Carrera has a few weeks until district play starts. He hopes the
Beeville Trojans Coach: Tom Carrera Players to watch: P/ SS/3B Clay Blackwell, sr.; SS/2B Joe Rey Garza, sr.; C Daniel Amador, jr.; P/1B/OF Cameron Kremers, soph. 2012 record: 9-16
rest of his players will come around when 30-4A play is under way and the season won’t end as quickly as a Scholar’s mate on a chessboard. “We’ve got to coach them up. That’s all we can do,” he said. “We have to get those kids to buy into what we’re doing. “Everybody in our district is good. It’s hard to find a bad team in South Texas. It’s tough. There ain’t no weak sisters there. Well-coached, great traditions, great players. It’s a dogfight for those four (playoff) spots. Hopefully we can fit in there.”
We’ve got to coach them up. That’s all we can do. We’ve got to get those kids to buy into what we’re doing.”
Tom Carrera, Beeville head coach
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The placement doesn’t matter to Tuloso-Midway coach Mike Davila, but playing in May does. Davila has the strange mixture of experienced sophomores and seniors along the Warriors’ roster. Whether that means a playoff spot out of District 30-4A is another matter. But all Davila wants is a top-four finish and to have plenty of May days on the diamond. “Our expectation, just like every year, is to get to May,” he said. “We don’t worry where we fall as far as first, second or third. Once you get to May, it’s all even. And, from what we’ve seen so far, we’re very poised.” Davila believes the team has the capability to play in May. His sophomores have more than 30 games experience at this point. Davila sees pitching and
defense as the strong point, led by the one-two sophomore combination of Caleb Rozypal and lefthander Mason Hellums on the hill. The adage about needing to be solid up the middle applies to T-M, which has returning starters holding down the middle of the field. Sophomore Nick Galaviz at shortstop and seniors Colton Wright at catcher and pitcher, Ben Garcia at second and Chris Martinets in center field all have starting experience and make the middle almost worryfree for Davila. “Pound those outs, get timely hits and get enough to runs to win,” Davila said. “Just have to win by one. What we have to work on is that timely hit. We can get 10 hits, but if we don’t get them at the right time, it doesn’t matter.” There are some spots that are up for grabs, depending on who is pitching. Former basketball standout Jeremy Brittain will hold a utility role to start the season though Davila believes he will be entrenched as a starter by year’s end. Senior outfielder Ryan Villalone will be
TODD YATES/CALLER-TIMES
quick and skilled with the bat in the second spot in the order. “We’re going to be scrappy and fast,” Flores said. “We’re not power hitters. We’re trying to get the base hit and take the extra base when we can. We emphasize putting pressure on the defense and making smart, high-risk gambles. “When Mickie gets on base, things start happening. Then Ruben can put the ball where he wants it and move people around. We like to get runners on and move them around like it’s a merry-go-round.” G-P, which was eliminated by Ray in three games in the area round, will have its work cut out in District 30-3A. Calallen, Tuloso-
11 steals. Gonzalez will play the middle infield, as will Cullen Vaught. Christian Cantu can man second or third, while Justice Flores can play the corner infield positions. Chase Whetsel has come over from Refugio to play in the outfield alongside Mikey Leal. That could, for the time being, keep the machine running along.
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C A L L E R -T I M E S
2013 HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW CLASS 3A
Sinton starts off strong with good core up middle ■■Pirates hope
Sinton Pirates
talent bolsters district chances By George Vondracek vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731
Ask longtime Sinton baseball coach Gene Kasprzyk if his Pirates are the favorites to win the District 30-3A championship and the answer is quick. And it isn’t a phrase usually associated with the perennial area and state contenders. With the biennial realignment, all six 30-3A teams made the playoffs in 2012. Lumped with Robstown, Rockport-Fulton, Ingleside, Orange Grove and West Oso, the Pirates will be “fighting for third,” Kasprzyk said. “I hope I’m wrong. I think we have enough talent to win the district. I think we will compete well,” said Kaspryzk, who has coached Sinton to three state championships. “I think on paper that Robstown and Rockport-Fulton are the teams to beat but I hope we can be competitive and ultimately have a say-so. But I think the district’s wide open.” Of course, Sinton wasn’t selected third in the statewide preseason coaches’ poll for giggles. Though they lost all of their outfielders and
Coach: Gene Kasprzyk Players to watch: P-SS Donivan Lopez, jr.; P-2B Trey Gallegos; P Hieme Perez, sr.; C Tracker Conn, jr.; DH-2B Gerad Galloway, sr.; P-IF Jonathan Acosta, sr. 2012 record: 22-11 (first, 30-3A)
leading hitter Cody Nedbalek, the Pirates do have the talent, as Kasprzyk alluded, to claim another district title. However, that talent has to produce and stay healthy, the latter of which being something that has been an issue for Sinton early. “You’ve got six playoff teams. I don’t really want to leave anybody out because I don’t want to make anybody mad at me. The truth of the matter is you don’t play the game on paper. A lot of things can happen,” Kasprzyk said. “We like our chances. We like what we’ve got. But there’s a lot of teams out there on paper that may have something to say about it. We’ll see.” The talent crop starts with pitchers Donivan Lopez, Trey Gallegos, Hieme Perez and catcher Tracker Conn. A junior and All-South Texas pitcher last year and a member of the small-school South Texas Preseason All-Star Team selected by the Hooks, Lopez also plays
shortstop. Gallegos, also a member of the Hooks’ team, was the all-district second baseman. Perez injured an ankle in the season-opening win over topranked 4A Calallen and will be out two weeks, Kasprzyk said. Conn has been hurt, as well, and hasn’t played, and versatile freshman outfielder C.J. Zepeda has been filling in behind the plate. First-team 30-3A designated hitter Gerad Galloway also returns, as does part-time outfield starter Andrew Mercier. Sinton also has added pitcher-infielder Jonathan Acosta, a Taft transfer who played on Sinton’s junior varsity last season. Acosta already has made an impact, belting a two-run home run in the win over Calallen. Thus, the Pirates need to get and stay healthy and find some outfielders to bolster a strong middle of the defense to perhaps make Kasprzyk forget about his preseason thoughts of “fighting for third.” “I think we have a good core and traditionally that’s where you want to start, with pitching and defense up the middle. So we have that in our favor,” Kasprzyk said. “We have some experience. We have a good, core group of guys coming back that played together. Ultimately, if we can handle the mental part of the game we should be pretty competitive.”
Sinton’s Donivan Lopez had an impressive 2012 and figures to be an integral player for the Pirates again this season. GEORGE TULEY/ SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES
Orange Grove plans to make a run at district ■■Pitching,
defense strong for Bulldogs By George Vondracek vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731
Fourth-year Orange Grove baseball coach John McBryde is facing a couple of problems this season. First and foremost is the competition the Bulldogs
will play in the revamped District 30-3A, with preseason state-ranked teams Sinton, Robstown and Rockport-Fulton, along with two other playoff entrants from 2012 aboard. McBryde’s second problem is a little more palatable — he has enough talent that formulating a starting lineup is proving to be a challenge. “But that’s way better than my first year four years ago when I was
Unknown Ingleside could surprise foes ■■Youngsters
look to spark Mustangs
By George Vondracek vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731
Area opponents are well aware of Ingleside senior pitchers Jimmy Goff and Connor Steadman. The rest of the Mustangs? Relative unknowns. That doesn’t mean Ingleside will be two-trick ponies this year. Far from it, first-year coach J.K. Moody maintains. They may be young. But the Mustangs aren’t backing away from the challenge of District 30-3A that is home to six playoff entrants from last year, including stateranked Sinton, Robstown and Rockport-Fulton. “We know and we think we can compete right now. We’re going to be good next year and the next year when those sophomores and juniors are seniors,” said Moody, an Ingleside assistant for three seasons before taking the headcoaching job. “But those sophomores can play.
They don’t play like sophomores. That’s why they’re all in the starting lineup, and that’s why they’re on the varsity. A lot of them have experience, whether it be select teams here in the city or travel on select teams throughout the state of Texas. They have the experience. They just don’t have the varsity experience.” The 6-foot-2 Steadman, who also will play in the infield and outfield, was a first-team 30-3A pitcher. The 6-3 Goff, a left-hander, also earned honorable-mention honors at first base. Goff also was named to the smallschool All-South Texas Preseason Baseball Team by the Hooks. While their efforts of those two seniors won’t be discounted, it is a cache of youngsters that will help spark the speedy Mustangs this season and down the road on their station-tostation approach to the game. Five sophomores are scheduled to start — “my babies,” as Moody calls them — and they include third baseman Robby Goff, Carroll transfer catcher Hunter Havelka, shortstop
unknown and didn’t have any pitching,” McBryde said. “Now I’ve got some pitching. We can match up and play with people. When your best pitcher was a freshman pitcher you’re in tough shape.” The Grove shouldn’t have a problem with pitching, with four-year letterman Chris Solano and juniors Justin Lopez and Isaiah Rodriguez in the fold. Solano was a firstteam 31-3A pick a year ago,
Ingleside Mustangs Coach: J.K. Moody Players to watch: P-1B Jimmy Goff, sr.; P-UT Connor Steadman, sr.; RF Brandon Hesseltine, jr.; C Hunter Havelka, soph.; CF J.D. Rodriguez, jr.; P-UT Myles Balderas, soph. Last year’s record: 17-11 (third, 30-3A)
Johnny Rodriguez and outfielder Myles Balderas. Center fielder and leadoff hitter J.D. Rodriguez and right fielder Brandon Hesseltine — Moody calls the latter, a Sinton transfer and nephew of Ingleside athletic director Graig Hesseltine, Ingleside’s “best pure hitter” — are set to start in the outfield. With all the young players, Moody likes flying under opponents’ radar but that may not last long if Ingleside continues its hot start to the season. “No one expects anything from us. I like it. I like that we can go out and not have a target on our back. I think if we had a target on our back we’d still do well,” Moody said. “But I think people don’t expect much from us because we’re young. Like I said, I’m playing my babies. We’re going to jump up, and we’re going to surprise people.”
as was Lopez as an outfielder. Senior outfielder Rayce Gatlin, a four-year starter, was the 31-3A Utility Player of the Year. Solano and Gatlin also were named to the small school All-South Texas Preseason Baseball Team by the Hooks. McBryde still is waiting on seven Bulldogs who still are competing on the basketball team to round out the squad. In the interim, several younger players,
including freshman catcher Drake Osborn, have picked up the slack for the Grove, which won four of its first five games, including the San Diego tournament. “We’re in the toughest district but we have pitching, we have good catching, we’ve got good defense. Our hitting has come through,” McBryde said. “I’ve got three guys that didn’t play on the varsity last year and the guys that are coming back are going to have to
West Oso trying to build on its success ■■Bears aim
for 20 wins, postseason
By George Vondracek vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731
Historically, one’s thoughts about West Oso tend to lean toward basketball and football, with some track and field thrown in. Slowly, the Bears’ baseball team is doing its best to create new history. “Last year was the first year we won so many games since 1970,” fifth-year West Oso coach David Zapien said of the Bears’ 18-11-1 performance in 2012. “That was the closest they came to winning 20 games and we won 18 last year. Our goal is to win 20, and that’d be the first time in school history we’ve won 20 games.” The Bears already boast successive postseason appearances for the first time since 2005 after making the playoffs only four other times in school history. Zapien is sensing an attitude change when it comes to baseball on the city’s west side.
“I think the program is definitely trying to be a contender, trying to move into the top tier of Corpus Christi schools and try to build on the tradition we’ve built the last two years,” Zapien said. “We lost in the playoffs to Sinton twice (last season) but they were really close. They beat us 4-0 and 6-5. “I think people are starting to notice that when they play us it’s going to be a good game, and our players are responding in that they know we can start winning ballgames now.” Making it three playoff trips in a row won’t be an easy task for the Bears, not with their five competitors in the revamped and powerful District 30-3A also coming off postseason trips in 2012. For that to happen, the Bears will be relying on a mix of returning and new players, but basically a young team. Sophomore pitcher-third baseman Michael Garcia, the 31-3A Newcomer of the Year, returns along with junior left fielder Derrick Sullivan. Both were first-team 31-3A picks. A third-team All-South Texas pick last season, Sullivan also was
Rockport-Fulton starts slow but expects big finish ■■Pirates look
to add to string of playoff berths By George Vondracek vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731
Despite riding the momentum of four consec ut ive postsea son berths, Rockport-Fulton’s seasoned baseball team got off to a bit of a rocky beginning this
season. But the Pirates’ 1-5 start hasn’t diminished the optimism of third-year coach Richard Vossen. “Honestly, we expect it to be a big year for us. You get a senior team, and it’s a group I’ve had three years with and they’re doing the things we’re asking them to do,” Vossen said. “It’s just a few mistakes here and there. Our pitching’s not quite ready.” In particular, ace Reid
Wagoner has yet to toe the rubber. The firstteam District 30-3A pick a year ago hasn’t been released to play after a knee injury sustained as a tight end-receiver on the Pirates’ football team, which had an unusually large number of injuries last season. Wagoner, who was unbeaten in four district decisions last season, was expected to be ready for play last week after being fitted for a
knee brace. “Reid’s a bonus. I think we’re pretty good right now. Our record doesn’t show it but we lost some close ballgames, did stuff to ourselves,” Vossen said. “We generally hit the ball well.” Wagoner is among seven starters returning for the 30-3A runnersup. Catcher Riley Pash, fleet outfielder and leadoff hitter Ray Allen and shortstop and No. 2-hole hitter Tony Kawczynski
were first-team 30-3A selections. A solid defensive player, Kawczynski may move to the outfield if sophomore Trey Hudson develops. Third baseman Rex Hoyt, the Pirates’ No. 2 pitcher, first baseman Ryan Sinclair and outfielder Steven Rytter also return. Reliever Tulley Mayfield and a host of younger pitchers — juniors Johnny Zamudio, Carson Jahn, Brandon Reese and
Orange Grove Bulldogs Coach: John McBryde Players to watch: P-SS Chris Solano, sr.; OF Rayce Gatlin, sr.; OF-P Justin Lopez, jr.; P Isaiah Rodriguez, jr. Last year’s record: 12-13 (second, 31-3A)
work for their jobs. “It’s a good problem. You know, when nobody’s hitting it’s a bad problem. But when you’ve got a bunch of people hitting, it’s a good problem.”
West Oso Bears Coach: David Zapien Players to watch: P-C Jose Tobar, sr.; P-3B Michael Garcia, soph.; LF Derrick Sullivan, jr.; RF Jaques Roberson, sr.; SS Jose-Luis Martinez, sr. 2012 record: 18-11-1 (second, 31-3A)
named to the small-school South Texas Preseason AllStar Team by the Hooks. Senior pitcher-catcher Jose Tobar, a second-team, all-district pick a year ago, is one of just a handful of seniors on the ballclub, with shortstop Jose-Luis Martinez and right fielder Jaques Roberson being the other starters. Besides Garcia, center fielder Jesse Curiel and first baseman Christian Lopez are the other scheduled sophomore starters. But Zapien is hoping the taste of success the Bears have enjoyed lately carries lingers into this season and beyond. “That’s the biggest thing. When I took over the program, maybe only like two had ever known what it was like to be in the playoffs,” said Zapien, whose team started the season 2-2-1. “Now, with these young guys I’ve got ... all they know is playoffs and that atmosphere. They’re responding. They’re practicing hard.”
RockportFulton Pirates Coach: Richard Vossen Players to watch: P Reid Wagoner, sr.; C Riley Pash, sr; SS-OF Tony Kawczynski, sr.; OF Ray Allen, sr.; P-3B Rex Hoyt, sr. 2012 record: 13-13 (second, 30-3A)
left-hander Seth Culver and sophomore lefties Daniel Guernsey and Cameron Noles — also could be key contributors.
C A L L E R -T I M E S
2013 HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW
« Sunday, March 3, 2013 « 7X
CLASS 3A/2A
Tradition-laden Robstown aims for state berth ■■Bulk of team
returns with playoffs in mind By George Vondracek vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731
True to predictions, Robstown took more than its share of lumps in the early part of the 2012 season. With just two seniors of note, the Cotton Pickers struggled to a 3-9-1 start. It should be duly noted, however, that the Cotton Pickers went on to win the District 31-3A title, fashion-
ing a 16-11-1 record before losing in a one-game playoff to Needville in the Region IV quarterfinals. And with the bulk of that team returning, a similar ragsto-riches story shouldn’t be forthcoming, even with a talent-packed District 303A ledger awaiting. “I think we have a chance to be like that 2011 team,” third-year coach and exRobstown pitcher Elias Vasquez said, referring to the 2011 squad that reached the 3A semifinals. “We know the district’s pretty tough. But playing these tough teams early on I think it’s going to prepare us and
help us out for that. I think once we get better and work hard, we can make a real good run in the playoffs.” The postseason has been Robstown’s second home, having reached the playoffs in 25 of the previous 26 seasons. With the cast returning, those numbers likely will increase by one come May. “You know what, we always tell the kids jokingly that you want to work hard and you want to continue this tradition,” Vasquez said. “You don’t want to be the class that broke that tradition, especially when it’s been going on so long.
They take that to heart, and they work hard.” Four-year starting pitcher-shortstop Brandon Garza returns, as do middle infielder Mike De Los Santos, catcher Efrain Gonzalez, three-year starting third baseman James Flores and left fielder Victor Leal. All but Leal (second team) were firstteam 31-3A picks a year ago. Garza, De Los Santos and Leal were on the small-school South Texas Preseason All-Star Team selected by the Hooks. The Cotton Pickers also are going to get a huge boost with the return of
senior pitcher-first baseman Jon Leal, who missed most of last season with an injury. Freshman pitcher Jesse Ray Garcia joins the varsity and he already has a two-hitter with 12 strikeouts against Port Lavaca Calhoun in the Odem tournament. “Basically, they want to end back in Austin, that’s their goal, to get back to the state tournament,” Vasquez said. “We tell them, ‘Well you know what, you’ve experienced it, you know what it takes to get there. It’s not just the best team that gets there all the time. You need a
Kingsville transitions in many ways in 3A ■■Coach hopes
players can put changes behind By George Vondracek vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731
It wasn’t the smoothest of transitions when Ovidio Arevalo finally took the reins of Kingsville’s baseball program. The former San Diego coach and longtime Rio
Grande Valley assistant originally was hired in 2011, but was reassigned when former coach Ricky Soliz was reinstated by the school board. Last July, Soliz again was reassigned. Arevalo again was appointed as the Brahmas’ coach, and he is ready to move forward and put the transition period behind the players. “I don’t dwell on that, either. Here we are. We’re here to work; now let’s get after it,” said Arevalo,
who coached San Diego from 1997-99 and was an assistant in Roma and Rio Grande City. “I’m sure somewhere maybe in the back of their minds they think about it once in a while. But when we’re playing and practicing, they’re getting after it. They’re doing what we ask them to do, and that’s the most important thing.” Kingsville does have some work to do, coming off a 7-16 season. The good news is the Brahmas
now are in District 31-3A instead of 31-4A, where they battled the likes of Alice, Calallen, Flour Bluff, Moody and Ray. Instead, Kingsville has to contend with perennial 3A postseason entrants Rio Grande City Grulla and Zapata, along with Lyford and Raymondville. “I think we can be competitive. I think we’ll surprise some people here and there,” Arevalo said. “We’ve got some good kids, some kids that want
to do well, come out and work hard. That’s always a plus.” A young Kingsville team returns three secondteam 31-4A selections from a year ago — junior David Cavazos, who moves from second base to shortstop, senior middle infielder Aaron Chapa and junior outfielder Andrae Wilson. Senior catcher Joel Cortez, an honorable mention pick, also returns. Arevalo also counts infielder Deandre Bergan,
Robstown Cotton Pickers Coach: Elias Vasquez Players to watch: P-SS Brandon Garza, sr.; 2B-3B Michael De Los Santos, jr.; 3B James Flores, sr.; P-1B Jon Leal, sr.; C Efrain Gonzalez, sr.; OF Victor Leal, sr. 2012 record: 16-11-1 (first, 31-3A)
little luck as well and everything has to fall in place.’ But when you have veteran players, senior leadership that’s been around it, yeah, it gets a lot easier.”
Kingsville Brahmas Coach: Ovidio Arevalo Players to watch: IF Aaron Chapa, sr.; C Joel Cortez, sr.; SS David Cavazos, jr.; P-IF Donny Diaz, jr.; P-OF Eric Perez, jr. 2012 record: 7-16 (sixth, 31-3A)
pitcher-infielder Donny Diaz, pitcher-outfielder Eric Perez, infielder Sammy Robles — all juniors — and sophomore pitcher-infielder Omar Hinojosa among players to contribute.
Talented Bishop team remains a 2A state contender ■■Led by pitcher Rubio, Badgers
comes a bar that continues to be raised. “Every group is trying to put Bishop on the map and outdo (the previous classes),” Borden said.
hope to break through regionals By Greg Rajan rajang@caller.com 361-886-3702
Bishop has done plenty of knocking on the door during the playoffs in recent seasons. This year, the Badgers are intent on breaking through. “It’s about just getting to the state tournament and knocking down the wall, man,” Bishop coach Nathan Borden said. “We need to find a way to get through that I-10 corridor that’s been holding us up.” Last year, it was Hallettsville that ended Bishop’s season in the Region IV2A semifinals with a pair of one-run losses. In 2011, it was eventual 2A champion Cameron that ousted the
Badgers in the same round after Bishop won the first game of their series. The difference, Borden said, was in arms. While Bishop has one of the area’s best in ace Joseph Rubio, who went 10-3 with a gaudy 0.91 ERA while earning second-team all-state accolades, there hasn’t been much pitching depth behind him. “I think we’re just facing good teams and having enough guys to pitch in these series is pretty tough,” said Borden, who used nine different pitchers during an opening-week tournament in Cuero. Borden said his roster has “as many talented kids as we’ve ever had in one group.” Among them are junior
CALLER-TIMES FILE
Bishop ace Joseph Rubio is one of South Texas’ best arms, but the Badgers need pitching depth to develop behind him.
shortstop Robert Olivarez, senior center fielder Victor Vera, senior catcher A.J. Cavazos. Senior pitcher Sam Reyes will be counted
upon to back Rubio in the rotation, and junior outfielder Kyle Kieschnick is back as well. With that crop of talent
FALFURRIAS Tradition-steeped Falfurrias figures to boast a squad that should challenge Bishop for 32-2A supremacy. Longtime coach David Salinas returns seven players with starting experience, and said he likes how this year’s team has meshed. “The chemistry is really good,” Salinas said. “They’re young, eager to learn and excited to be there playing. Last year, we more business like, had more experience. “It’s a good mix, the young guys remind the older guys, ‘Let’s just have fun and whatever happens,
happens.’ It’s a good deal.” Among Salinas’ key returnees include a trio of seniors: Catcher Lorenzo Vela, left fielder Michael Carasco — an all-state honorable mention — and center fielder John Michael Gonzales. Junior third baseman Gilbert Alegria also figures to play a key role. That kind of leadership will be needed with Bishop — which ended Falfurrias’ season in the regional quarterfinals — becoming a district rival. “It’s going to a be lot tougher district with them in it,” Salinas said. “And Santa Rosa has everyone coming back, so they’re going to be tough. “And Riviera has always been a baseball town. It’s going to be real competitive. The playoffs are going to be a tough ticket, let me tell you.”
Mathis drops down to join ranks of tough District 31-2A By Greg Rajan rajang@caller.com 361-886-3702
District 31-2A is about as travel-friendly a league as one will find in South Texas. And judging by what the coaches say, the competition figures to be just as close as well. Just ask Mathis’ Rey Cardona, whose Pirates dropped down from the Class 3A ranks. “I think that everybody in our district is just as good as what we left,” Cardona said. “We’ve seen George West. We’ve played them throughout the years, and they are just a top-notch school. “It is good not to have to play (3A teams) Robstown, Sinton, Rockport-Fulton and Ingleside, but I don’t know if it’s that big a difference (in 31-2A).”
BANQUETE The Bulldogs’ roster has an accent on youth this season, with six freshmen starting along with
a sophomore to only two seniors for new coach Lance Riddell, who came from Port Lavaca Calhoun. The two seniors, pitcher Michael Nunez — a third-team all-district selection last year — and catcher Miguel Arce will be counted on to provide a veteran presence. “We feel that if we can continue to progress throughout the season, we will be competitive,” Riddell said.
FREER The Buckaroos bring back six starters from a team that just missed the postseason last year. Junior Jacob Cantu is slated to play shortstop and be the staff ace, with senior outfielder Junior Cadena the No. 2 pitcher. Sophomores Lando Balboa (outfield) and Aaron Serrato (catcher) and freshman outfielder/pitcher Michael Juarez lead the youth brigade. “Our group, we have a lot of players who have been really committed and their goal is to
reach the playoffs,” Freer coach Tony Molina said. “And not just to make the playoffs, but make a statement in the playoffs.”
GEORGE WEST The last time we saw the Longhorns, they were eliminated in one of last year’s wildest playoff series, a Region IV-2A quarterfinal against Luling that saw all three games decided in the final at-bat. George West has a solid returning nucleus, headed by seniors such as pitcher/infielder Derek Cantu, first baseman Andrew Katzfey and outfielders Lucas Barcak, Brady Jones and Bobby Torres. Sophomore pitcher Alex Zuniga and junior second baseman/outfielder Michael Palacios also should play key roles. “One thing we’ve really stressed this year is to not beat ourselves and make plays,” Longhorns coach Chuck Pawelek said. “I think with the amount of
seniors we have, they know it’s now or never for them.”
MATHIS Not only are the Pirates in a new classification, they’re breaking in a pretty much unproven lineup. Among those with experience is junior Jason Gonzales, who moved from second base to shortstop. Senior Colton Thomas is likely to step in at catcher, junior John Flores will man center field and senior Andy Ochoa is expected to hold down a spot at third. According to Cardona, an early revelation has been freshman outfielder Jesse Gonzales, “Since I’ve been here it’s been few and far between that a freshman comes in and gets to play,” Cardona said. “Jesse Gonzales is just one of those baseball kids. He dresses the part, he acts the part and it’s always good to have kids like that.” TAFT The Greyhounds found a way
to stick around in games last season with a very inexperienced squad. This year will be about trying to find a winning formula. “We’ve got a good nucleus,” Taft coach Albert Amaya said. “They kind of know my system and learned from our mistakes last year. We competed in a lot of those games and hopefully that year of experience will get us over that hump.” Amaya will lean on a pair of juniors who started as freshmen in shortstop/catcher/pitcher Jestin Flores and center fielder/pitcher David Sturgeon. Also back are the likes of three-year starter Scott Longoria, a first and third baseman and senior catcher/first baseman Nas Hiricheta, a twoyear starter. Sophomore pitcher/ outfielder Jonathan Moreno also is expected to contribute. “Last year, it was more teaching them the fundamentals,” Amaya said. “Now we’re trying to teach them to do a little more.”
Refugio hopes to learn from last year’s heartbreaking playoff loss By Greg Rajan rajang@caller.com 361-886-3702
If anyone needs a refresher course on the cruel nature of playoff baseball, look no further than the 2012 Refugio Bobcats. A splendid regular season was undone with the loss of a coin flip, some bad weather that affected playoff plans and then a postseason run that ended before it even began. That 23-0 regular
season? It went up in smoke with a Region IV-2A arearound loss to George West in a one-game playoff. And it’s hardly been forgotten as the 2013 campaign has gotten under way, “It was terrible,” Refugio coach Armando Huerta said. “The reason I say it was terrible is because it was a wasted opportunity. Last year’s team was as complete a team as we’ve had in a while — defense, pitching and hitting. We were a special team and
missed an opportunity to do some special things. “I think we’re going to be a little more on our toes because of that. A lot of times we got complacent and assumed we’d win all the time because we were on a roll. That’s not the case in baseball. You have to show up and win every single game.” Huerta still boasts talent around the field. Returning is junior shortstop/pitcher Travis Quintanilla, last year’s unanimous District
31-2A MVP and a first-team all-state selection. Other returning starters include the senior trio of infielder Cameron Sternadel, first baseman Colton Carroll and left fielder John Wesley Shipp. Meanwhile, senior infielder Draigon Silvas, who has varsity experience, is back. As for newcomers, sophomore Tyler Castellano will play center field and pitch while juniors Shane Jochetz (catcher), Jim LaFond (right field), Cameron
Loveday (designated hitter) and Devon LaFrance (third base) also will see time.
AROUND 30-2A Aransas Pass joins the league after dropping down from Class 3A. The Panthers return some talent, including Noe Cortez, who was 30-3A’s freshman of the year last season. Also back are junior pitcher/infielder Victor Gonzalez, senior outfielder/pitcher Matt Johnson, who was second-team all-district,
and senior outfielder Eric Johnson. … El Maton Tidehaven went three rounds deep in last year’s playoffs while Goliad is another program that dropped down from 3A.
Class 1A TAPPS For a preview of area Class A and TAPPS teams, see today’s sports section.
8X » Sunday, March 3, 2013 »
C A L L E R -T I M E S
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