Ethan Mendoza, a veteran infielder who previously led the Texas Longhorns with a .333 batting average in 2025, announced that he will be back with the team for the upcoming season after slipping through the 2026 MLB draft without a selection. The Texas native began his college career at Arizona State before transferring to Texas, where he quickly became a cornerstone of the program.
During the 2025 campaign Mendoza posted a .333 average, but in 2026 his batting numbers dipped by 55 points while his power output surged, culminating in 10 home runs and 50 RBIs. The shift was partly by design, as shoulder injuries forced him to spend the final seven weeks of the season as a designated hitter, a role he embraced while focusing on his health and longevity.
A Strategic Return
Mendoza expressed his enjoyment of the College World Series atmosphere and emphasized his commitment to taking care of his body so he can contribute at the highest level. "I’m excited to be back with my teammates and help push this program forward," he said in a recent interview.
The Longhorns will also welcome back shortstop Adrian Rodriguez and first baseman Casey Borba, both of whom are expected to anchor the infield. Their return adds depth and experience to a lineup that already boasts Mendoza’s veteran presence.
New Faces and Fresh Talent
Texas Tech transfer Linkin Garcia became the first member of UT’s 2026 transfer class, bringing additional versatility to the squad. Meanwhile, the program said goodbye to versatile infielder Temo Becerra, who graduated, while recent draft picks Grady Emerson and Beau Peterson were selected in the first five rounds of the 2026 MLB Draft, signaling a productive pipeline of talent.
Coaching staff and analysts alike see the combination of returning veterans and fresh arms as a recipe for a strong infield lineup heading into the next season. The team’s depth chart now reflects a blend of power, speed, and defensive reliability.
Looking Ahead
With a solid core of players and a renewed focus on health, the Texas Longhorns are poised to compete fiercely in the upcoming season. Fans can expect a lineup that leverages Mendoza’s power hitting, Rodriguez’s agility at shortstop, and Borba’s consistency at first base, all under the guidance of a coaching staff determined to rebuild on recent successes.