The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley announced that five of its baseball standouts have been named to the All‑Academic Southland Conference team, a distinction that honors both athletic achievement and academic excellence.
A Dual Commitment to Scholarship and Sport
All five honorees maintained a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.25 and appeared in at least half of the team's games, meeting the conference's strict eligibility criteria.
Rocco Garza Gongora led the squad with a .303 batting average, posting a .401 on‑base percentage and a .504 slugging percentage. He contributed seven home runs, 21 doubles, two triples, 37 runs batted in and 55 runs scored, while also stealing 16 bases. His consistency placed him among the program's longest error‑free streaks, tied for tenth at 55 games.
Easton Moomau batted .280 with a .402 on‑base rate and a .403 slugging mark, delivering six home runs, 41 runs batted in and 28 runs scored. He ranked 98th nationally and fourth within the Southland for walks, showcasing a disciplined approach at the plate.
Julius Ramirez posted a .297 average, a .361 on‑base percentage and a .495 slugging percentage, including 11 home runs and 52 runs batted in. His five sacrifice flies placed him 116th in the NCAA and third in the Southland, underscoring his clutch hitting.
Armani Raygoza emerged as the program's all‑time home run leader with 40 career blasts and the top RBI producer with 138. He hit .314 with a .462 on‑base rate and a .633 slugging percentage, smashing 17 home runs and driving in 50 runs while scoring 53 times. Raygoza also topped the Southland in walks, home runs and slugging, cementing his status as a statistical leader.
Thomas Williams contributed a .319 average, a .412 on‑base percentage and a .472 slugging percentage, adding five home runs, 40 runs batted in and 46 runs scored. He stole eight bases and recorded 14 doubles, providing additional depth to the lineup.
Program Milestones and National Recognition
The collective performances have not only enriched the team's on‑field competitiveness but also highlighted the program's ability to attract student‑athletes who excel in both arenas. Several of the players are positioned among the conference's statistical leaders, reflecting the program's growing influence within the Southland and its representation in national rankings.
University officials praised the honorees for embodying the institution's mission of integrating academic rigor with athletic ambition. The recognition underscores the supportive environment that fosters success in the classroom and on the diamond, setting a benchmark for future cohorts.