Athlete of the Week: Martin Vazquez

3 weeks ago 44

EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Sharyland alum Martin Vazquez has dealt damage at the dish during his first year at UTRGV.

The redshirt junior currently leads the Vaqueros in home runs (8) and is tied for the lead in RBIs

“I think I’ve just been having fun and kept it kind of simple," Vazquez said. "I'm not trying to do too much. I'm just trying to help the team. That’s what’s been giving me success lately.”

Vazquez spent his first two collegiate seasons at Alvin Community College, located in the suburbs of Houston. At the junior college level, Vazquez posted 14 home runs and 78 RBIs in two seasons.

The Monterrey, Mexico, native then transferred to UTRGV, and being able to play in front of his friends and family has meant a lot to him.

"My parents, and even my friends, they haven’t really seen me play much since I left here," Vazquez said. "I think it’s really cool that they can come watch games.”

Vazquez not only makes an impact offensively, but he also makes an impact with his glove.

The Vaqueros lost a major piece from last year's roster as Brandon Pimentel graduated from the university.

However, Head Coach Derek Matlock believes Vazquez is just as special of a talent.

"He's a great defender, he can hit the ball to all fields, has got some power. He’s just really fun to watch," Matlock said. "He had a really good weekend up in Utah, too, and he’s just an exciting player. He’s got a big-time two-year future here. We’re excited to have him.”

Despite his success, Vazquez is a team player. Martin worries about winning above all.

"I try to not put a lot of pressure on myself," Vazquez said. "I try to just do what I can do, play hard, help the team, and when I have a good day, hopefully that leads to a team win."

UTRGV returns home this weekend to face the University of Texas at Arlington in a three-game series. Game one is set for Friday, April 5, at 6:30 p.m.

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