Lopez jumps on South to split 32-5A series

HARLINGEN — Brownsville Lopez batted around the lineup in the top of the first inning, scoring 6 runs. The Lobos would not relinquish that lead and would go on to pick up a 10-5 victory over District 32-5A rivals, Harlingen South, on Friday night.

The Lobos dropped Game 1 on Tuesday to the Hawks 6-1 in Brownsville. Lopez head coach Victor Martinez said losing that game hurt.

“We are big on not losing at home, and they beat us there, so we wanted to make sure we came out and make a statement that we are ready to play ball against anybody,” Martinez said.

Brownsville Lopez scored 6 runs in the first inning. The Lobos beat Harlingen South 10-5 in the District 32-5A meeting in Harlingen. Photo by Andrew Cordero – Special to RGVSports.com.

That statement was the six runs in the top of the first. Lobos outfielder Hunter Liendo drove in the first two runs with a double. Hector Arellano, Alvaro Parra, Albert Villafranca and Lupe Ramirez also hit in runs.

Arellano had a solid cushion to work with on the mound. Harlingen South would chip away at the lead, but the pitcher that is signed with the University of Houston was able to grind out the win.

“The win was nice, it was kind of like a district championship game. Last year I did not get to play them because of injuries, so this game meant a lot to me and the team,” Arellano said.

Brownsville Lopez pitcher Hector Arellano on the mound against Harlingen South Friday night in Harlingen. Photo by Andrew Cordero – Special to RGVSports.com.

The Lobos wrapped things up in the top of the seventh when Alan Arizpe brought in three runs to make it 10-5. Parra picked up the save in the bottom half.

The win keeps the Lobos tied for first in District 32-5A with Weslaco East at 10-2. Harlingen South is 9-3 and so is Brownsville Rivera.

The district is very much still up for grabs with Weslaco East and Brownsville Rivera yet to play.

“We got to keep it one game at a time,” Martinez said. “Our job is not complete. There is still six games left, we have to work one week — one game at a time.”

Arellano echoed his coach’s sentiments.

“We still have to be consistent. We can not take days off, we are not. Our coach is very good about that, he makes sure we are very disciplined, always have confidence and never lose respect for the game,” he said.

Brownsville Lopez faces Edcouch-Elsa next week while Harlingen South faces Donna High in district play.

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