Pitching Will Be Key For A Successful Season

Being in a ten team district is not the best situation for any team in district 32-4A, but the Tigers return five starters and one letterman who will have to take a big step forward in order for the Tigers to get back to the playoffs.  “This year we will rely on consistent good pitching and overall defensive play.  The physical and mental development in our young players in all phases of the game will also play a big role in how our season turns out,” said Coach Jaime Castañeda beginning his 11^th season in Mercedes.  Look for the Tigers to take a huge step forward and become a serious player in the 2012 playoff race.  The Tigers last playoff appearance was in 2009 losing to Alice in the Bi-District Round.

Head Coach:                          Jaime Castañeda, 11th season

Assistant Coaches:               Armando Reyes, Don Smith, Joey Leal

2011 Record:                          10-16, District: 8-10

Schoolʼs District Titles:      1974, 1986, and 1993

State Finalists:                     1974 and 1986

Key Losses:                           Joe Garza

C.J. Alvarado

Ruben Sosa

Jeffrey Hernandez

Returning Starters:             David Gonzales, P/SS

Isaiah Garza, P/OF

Israel Vega, P/OF

Jerry Aldape, P/OF

Mark Garcia, 1B/DH             

Returning Letterman:         Joey Cruz

Top Newcomers:                   Gilbert Vela

Gero Perez

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