Magnolia West's Jackson Blank
Juan De Leon (VYPE)
The Regional Quarterfinals will feature several enticing matchups, such as Friendswood v. Barbers Hill, which could very well shape the remainder of the postseason.
What more could a sports fan ask for?
Here are some of the most anticipated playoff series of the week.
H-Town 5A Standouts: Diego Luzardo (Sr. OF/P)--La Porte
Juan De Leon (VYPE)
Friendswood Mustangs v. Barbers Hill Eagles
2022-23 Friendswood Baseball
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
2022-23 Regular Season: 24-4-2/District 18-5A Champions
Head Coach: Robert Benavides
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 12-3, Game 2: W 10-3) v. Port Neches-Groves
- Area Round: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 9-1, Game 2: W 17-4) v. Milby
2022-23 Regular Season: 21-10-1/District 17-5A Champions
Head Coach: David Denny
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 3-1, Game 2: W 6-5) v. Galveston Ball
- Area Round: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 4-2, Game 2: W 11-10) v. Foster
This past week's trouncing over the Milby Buffs was business as usual for Friendswood.
Easton Tumis was a force on the mound in game one, limiting Milby to just one run, while the Mustangs lineup--namely Boots Landry (Sr. 1B), Ayden Pearcy (Jr. 3B), sophomore C/IF Dane Perry, and more--enjoyed consecutive field days during their 26-run scoring-barrage.
Given the fact that anyone on this lineup can step up when necessary, paired with their relentless bullpen, Friendswood is one of the most difficult ball clubs in the state to prepare for.
That being said, Barbers Hill has the potential to give the Mustangs a run for their money.
After earning two hard-fought wins against a serious contender like Foster, it would be unwise to underestimate the Eagles as they fight for a trip to the Regional Tournament.
2022-23 Barbers Hill Baseball
Juan De Leon (VYPE)
Lake Creek Lions v. Georgetown Eagles
2022-23 Lake Creek Baseball
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
2022-23 Regular Season: 20-9/Finished 2nd in District 21-5A
Head Coach: Jeremy Schramm
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: 11-1 Win v. Shoemaker
- Area Round: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 5-1, Game 2: W 6-0) v. Austin McCallum
Georgetown Eagles
2022-23 Regular Season: 19-12-1/District 23-6A Champions
Head Coach: Jordan Vierra
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 11-0, Game 2: W 10-0) v. Navarro
- Area Round: 2-1 Series Win (Game 1: W 2-1, Game 2: L 2-6, Game 3: W 7-1) v. A&M Consolidated
Yet another strong outing was made by the Lake Creek ball club, in the Area Round.
The Liosn bullpen continues to look impenetrable, which was evidenced by the minuscule offensive success allowed to McCallum.
Senior Weston Moss had a respectable opener against the Austin team, limiting them to just one run on the night while throwing four Ks. The subsequent start was taken to another level, as Jackson Wilkerson (Sr. LHP) sat down ten batters in the process of completing a shutout victory.
In addition to their shutdown defensive effort, Lake Creek's batters were at the top of their game. Sam Lee (Jr. OF) tallied four base-hits in the series with two RBIs, while junior MIF Austin Wiederhold's performance in Game No. 2 (3-3, 2B, RBI) was one of definitive factors that led to the Lions sweep over the Knights.
Lake Creek will be in top form to take on Georgetown this week, with Mumford High School being the venue.
Magnolia West Mustangs v. Lake Belton Broncos
2022-23 Magnolia West Baseball
Juan De Leon (VYPE)
2022-23 Regular Season: 24-4/District 21-5A Champions
Head Coach: Travis Earles
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 10-0, Game 2: W 10-0) v. Killeen
- Area Round: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 6-3, Game 2: W 8-0) v. Pflugerville
Lake Belton Broncos
2022-23 Regular Season: 24-6/District 22-5A Champions
Head Coach: Chris Peacock
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 6-5, Game 2: W 6-2) v. Montgomery
- Area Round: 2-1 Series Win (Game 1: W 7-1, Game 2: L 5-6, Game 3: W 5-1) v. Elgin
The Mag West hype train keeps rolling after outclassing Pflugerville in the Area Round.
Coach Travis Earles continues to optimize his lineup through his first year on the job, and it can't hurt to have one of the most complete rosters around.
Following their 6-3 win in the opener, the Mustangs really got their chance to shine in game two, which was ironic considering the lightning storms that delayed the exhibition two hours.
Despite the conditions, Mag West proceeded to send Pflugerville home, courtesy of a complete game shutout thrown by senior RHP Caylon Dygert, who tacked on seven strikeouts for good measure.
Jackson Blank (Sr. OF/P) ignited the Mustang offense, accruing four RBIs off of two hits, while junior SS Dawson Park racked up three hits from the leadoff spot.
At minimum, Magnolia West is in pursuit of the reaching the Regional Finals for the first time since 2019. The next obstacle standing in their way is Lake Belton.
Fulshear Chargers v. La Porte Bulldogs
2022-23 Fulshear Baseball
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Fulshear Chargers
2022-23 Regular Season: 22-8-1/District 20-5A Champions
Head Coach: Robb Jensen
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 8-2, Game 2: W 12-1) v. Fort Bend Austin
- Area Round: 2-1 Series Win (Game 1: L 0-2, Game 2: W 7-1, Game 3: W 1-0)
2022-23 Regular Season: 22-8-1/Finished 2nd in District 18-5A
Head Coach: Ricky Torres
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 4-2, Game 2: W 5-0) v. Goose Creek Memorial
- Area Round: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 7-0, Game 2: W 9-1) v. Waltrip
Fulshear showcased their longevity against an emboldened Crosby team.
Despite narrowly dropping the series opener, the Chargers came back in full force to take game two, thanks to an inspired outing by senior RHP Tyler Schumann (1 ER, 7 K) to tie the series at a game a piece.
The finale was a sheer test of will, one in which the Lamar CISD ball club emerged victorious in a one-score game.
La Porte, on the other hand, seemingly breezed past Waltrip to earn their spot in the Regional Quarterfinals.
The Bulldogs hitting was like clockwork last week. With some of their top batters--Dagoberto Garcia (Sr. OF), Landon Kay (Jr. OF), and senior OF/P Diego Luzardo being among them--anchoring the offense, La Porte's pitching could thrive without too much pressure.
La Porte will look to maintain their momentum when they face off against Fulshear, starting this Thursday at C.E. King High School.
Some of the stars of 2022-23 La Porte Baseball
Juan De Leon (VYPE)
2022-23 Langham Creek Softball
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Some teams like Pearland and Ridge Point were preseason favorites to be two-steps away from State, but how about Bellaire and Langham Creek? Kudos to the Cardinals and Lobos for shocking the Region.
Here is a look at the big match-ups this week as the field continues narrow.
H-Town 6A Standouts: Trinity Allen (Sr. IF)--Bridgeland
Justin Hartojo (VYPE)
Ridge Point Panthers v. Deer Park Deer
2022-23 Ridge Point Softball
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Ridge Point Panthers
2022-23 Regular Season: 21-7/Co-District 20-6A Champions
Head Coach: Lindsey Gage
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: 16-8 Win v. Tompkins
- Area Round: 5-0 Win v. Cy-Fair
- Regional Quarters: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 17-3, Game 2: 8-7)
2022-23 Regular Season: 21-8/District 22-6A Champions
Head Coach: Amy Vidal-Bush
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 10-0, Game 2: W 19-1) v. C.E. King
- Area Round: 2-1 Series Win (Game 1: L 3-5, Game 2: W 5-4, Game 3: W 5-4) v. Alvin
- Regional Quarters: 2-1 Series Win (Game 1: W 13-9, Game 2: L 7-11, Game 3: W 10-3) v. Atascocita
Ridge Point is coming a statement win against a surging Heights club, not to mention in stylish fashion.
It all starts with the pitching from senior Bailey Gray who allowed just three runs with 12 Ks on the mound, in addition to her consistent success at the plate (5-8, RBI).
The offensive push made by the Panthers was anchored by their reliable SS Jade Uresti (Sr.) who batted for over .400 in the matchup, knocking in six runs, and scoring two in the process. Braelyn Daniels (So. C/OF) was also among the Ridge Point lineup who provided the additional firepower (3-8, 3 RBI, 2 R) to send the Panthers back to the Regional Tournament after missing out a year ago.
They will be tasked with facing an emboldened Deer Park team who's coming off a statement win against Atascocita.
Not even weather delays can keep this roster comprised of next-level athletes from cooking.
This is THE series to watch.
2022-23 Deer Park Softball
Jamie Wright (VYPE)
Bellaire Cardinals v. Pearland Oilers
Some of the stars of 2022-23 Bellaire Softball
Juan De Leon (VYPE)
Bellaire Cardinals
2022-23 Regular Season: 21-12/Finished 2nd in District 18-6A
Head Coach: Brien Tuffly
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 4-2, Game 2: W 6-5) v. Houston Memorial
- Area Round: 1-0 Win v. Katy
- Regional Quarters: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 11-1, Game 2: W 6-1) v. Jersey Village
2022-23 Regular Season: 28-3/District 23-6A Champions
Head Coach: Laneigh Clark
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: 13-0 Win v. Clear Brook
- Area Round: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 1-0, Game 2: W 8-4) v. Summer Creek
- Regional Quarters: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 9-6, Game 2: W 1-0) v. Kingwood
This Regional Semis matchup is intriguing to say the least.
Bellaire is a team that ceases to surprise their opposition, which was put on full display in their definitive sweep over Jersey Village, just one week after upsetting the Katy Tigers.
The Cardinals were anchored by a tremendous offensive effort made by sophomore 3B Bella Rivera, who remained consistent at-bat throughout the series, while Ainsley Pinkerton (Jr. C) was among the many Bellaire players to rack up the runs.
In addition, reigning district 18-6A MVP Claire Shelley was as effective as ever on the mound in Game No. 1, limiting the Falcons to just one run. Sophomore P/1B Sophie Donalson would follow suit in the second game, allowing a single unearned run, with four strikeouts.
Donalson would also play a key role at-bat, as she drove in three runs with two hits in the 6-1 series clincher. This will be the first time since 2018 that Bellaire has advanced to the fourth round of the playoffs.
However, Pearland is sure to provide a challenge for the Cardinals.
With their series sweep against Kingwood, the Lady Oilers reminded Houston of their capability to perform under pressure.
As long as recently-selected district MVP Abigail Gutierrez (Sr. P) is on the mound, Pearland will continue to be a legitimate contender for a State Title.
Furthermore, count on senior 2B Kennedy Drafton, as well as outfielders Kaylee Schweitzer (So.) and Hailey Golden (Sr.) to be among the various play-makers for the Pearland squad.
2022-23 Pearland Softball
Justin Hartojo (VYPE)
Langham Creek Lobos v. Midway Panthers
2022-23 Langham Creek Softball
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
2022-23 Regular Season: 25-7/Co-District 16-6A Champions
Head Coach: Michele Biffle
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 11-1, Game 2: W 8-0) v. Klein Oak
- Area Round: 2-1 Series Win (Game 1: W 7-6, Game 2: L 7-10, Game 3: 2-0) v. New Caney
- Regional Quarters: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 1-0, Game 2: W 3-2) v. Klein Collins
Midway Panthers
2022-23 Regular Season: 25-3-2/District 12-6A Champions
Head Coach: Jordan Williams
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: 2-1 Series Win (Game 1: L 2-3, Game 2: W 23-10, Game 3: W 11-1) v. Mansfield
- Area Round: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 5-3, Game 2: W 10-0) v. Wylie East
- Regional Quarters: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 4-3, Game 2: W 9-2) v. Royse City
Langham Creek is nothing if not resilient.
Their willingness to win was palpable as they faced an intimidating team like Klein Collins.
The game-changer for the Lobos has to be their ace Emily Simmons (Sr. RHP), who allowed only a single run in the two-game sweep, all while stifling the KC offense with 28 total strikeouts through the series.
Despite the skillful pitching they faced with the Tigers' Savannah Carter on the opposing mound, Langham Creek's Lindsay Durham (Jr. OF/1B) remained a constant threat, hitting 4-for-5, with a double and two runs scored to propel the Lobos offense.
Senior OF Sydney McReynolds played a significant role as well, considering the two RBIs she had in Game No. 2 was the ultimate difference-maker in their 3-2 victory.
The Cy-Fair ISD ball club will have their work cut out for them as they face a formidable Midway team, but if this past week was any indication, Langham Creek is not to be taken lightly.
Bridgeland Bears v. Wylie Pirates
2022-23 Bridgeland Softball
Justin Hartojo (VYPE)
2022-23 Regular Season: 27-5-1/Co-District 16-6A Champions
Head Coach: Candi Weige
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: 4-1 win v. Klein
- Area Round: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 6-0, Game 2: W 5-4) v. Conroe
- Regional Quarters: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 18-1, Game 2: W 4-1) v. Spring
Wylie Pirates
2022-23 Regular Season: 25-10/District 9-6A Champions
Head Coach: Heather Damron
2022-23 Playoffs:
- Bi-District: Series Sweep (Game 1: W 4-0, Game 2: W 10-0) v. Horn
- Area Round: Series Sweep (Game1: W 10-0, Game 2: W 10-0) v. Mansfield Legacy
- Regional Quarters: 2-1 Series Win (Game 1: L 0-1, Game 2: W 12-4, Game 3: W 2-1) v. Rockwall
Bridgeland seems to have only gotten better as this postseason has transpired.
The Bears made no effort to take it easy on the Spring Lions, handing them a 17-run marginal defeat in game one, before closing it out in somewhat more modest fashion (4-1) in the series-deciding victory.
Hats off to Trinity Allen (Sr. IF), who had a field day in the opener, going 3-for-4 while driving in five runs, scoring three herself, and knocking one out of the park.
Junior infielder Daniella Lopez also played phenomenally in the two-game sweep, batting for .600, with four RBIs, three runs scored, and a homer of her own, while Chesley Swisher (Jr. UTL) remained consistent throughout the series (.333 BA, 2 RBI, 4 R).
And let's not forget about junior RHP Sydney Jackson allowing just one earned run while racking up 15 strikeouts in her two starts for the Bears.
With an opportunity to play in the Regional Finals on the line, Bridgeland is traveling to Lake Belton High School this week, where they'll face Wylie.
If you don't mind a little road trip, this will be a fun series to witness.
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