Weslaco baseball back in the regional quarterfinals since 2007

WESLACO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Weslaco freshman John Reyna delivered the game-winning RBI to send Weslaco to the third round of the playoffs for the first time since 2007.

Reyna’s game-winner sealed a seven-run comeback for the Panthers in a winner-takes-all game three against Eagle Pass.

Emotions were at an all-time high following the game three thriller. Weslaco Head Coach J.J. Garcia said, “I can’t remember another game three that we’ve played here over the years that was as exciting as that one.”

Junior first baseman Gael Villarreal added, “As soon as that run scored and we ran to the field to celebrate with the boys, that is the best feeling you could possibly have. It was amazing.”

Weslaco now finds themselves in unfamiliar territory in recent memory. Most of the Panther roster had not been born the last time they made it this far in the postseason.

Nevertheless, this ball club takes pride in being the first team in 17 years to reach the third round.

“It feels amazing to be a part of this group of guys,” Reyna said. “I know this is the best team Weslaco has had in a while. We’re stacked.”

Weslaco turns its attention to La Joya in the Region IV-6A quarterfinal. The Panthers already faced the Coyotes in the regular season, falling 5-4.

It’s no secret La Joya is accustomed to playoff runs, but Weslaco knows to pick up the series win, they have to stay true to its game.

“We have to do what we’ve been doing all year,” Garcia said. “The pitching needs to be there, the defense needs to be sound, but of course, we have to get clutch hits whenever we need them.”

Weslaco will host game one of the best-of-three series against La Joya.

First pitch is set for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.