UIL 5A State Baseball: Magnolia West Semifinal Preview

**Magnolia West Mustangs Eye Historic State Title Run in Round Rock**

**ROUND ROCK, TX –** The Magnolia West Mustangs baseball team is set to embark on a monumental journey this week, making their highly anticipated return to the UIL Class 5A State Tournament at Dell Diamond. The Mustangs, representing the Magnolia community, will compete against three other top teams for the state championship, marking their first appearance in Round Rock since 2017.

Magnolia West (31-10) will kick off their quest for the state title in the semifinals on Wednesday, June 5, at 4 p.m., facing off against the formidable Sharyland Pioneer Diamondbacks.

**A Season of Dominance and Resilience**

Head Coach James Dillard’s Mustangs have carved a path of impressive victories throughout the season and playoffs. Their 31-10 regular-season record was a testament to their consistency and talent, especially considering the competitive nature of District 21-5A, which also saw College Station make a deep run into the regional finals.

The Mustangs’ playoff road has been nothing short of spectacular, overcoming a gauntlet of tough opponents. They conquered Barbers Hill, Friendswood, Santa Fe, Fulshear, and Boerne Champion en route to securing their berth at Dell Diamond. This resilience and ability to perform under pressure have been hallmarks of their postseason success.

At the core of Magnolia West’s strength is a robust pitching rotation and a stellar defense that has consistently stifled opposing offenses. Leading the charge on the mound is senior LHP Lucas Bennefield, who has been a dominant force throughout the season, providing crucial innings and clutch performances. Offensively, the team boasts a lineup filled with senior leadership and power, including infielder Cody Luna, outfielder James Leverton, and catcher Landon Pleake, all of whom have delivered key hits and anchored the team’s production.

“Getting back to Round Rock is a tremendous accomplishment for these young men and our program,” Coach Dillard stated. “They’ve worked incredibly hard all season, battling through a very tough district and an even tougher playoff bracket. We’re excited for the challenge and ready to represent Magnolia West at the highest level.”

**Facing a Formidable Foe**

The Mustangs will be tested immediately by the Sharyland Pioneer Diamondbacks (33-8) from Mission, TX. Coach Casey Taylor’s squad is equally formidable, bringing their own impressive playoff run to Round Rock. The Diamondbacks defeated Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial and Gregory-Portland on their way to the state semifinals.

Pioneer’s ace, senior RHP Caleb Cavazos, is a major threat on the mound, having committed to Texas A&M. His presence will undoubtedly set up a thrilling pitching duel against Magnolia West’s rotation.

**A Stacked Field**

Later that same day, Wednesday, June 5, at 7 p.m., the other Class 5A semifinal will feature a clash of baseball titans. The Grapevine Mustangs (37-5), who hold a UIL-record eight state championships and are perennial contenders, will face the Leander Rouse Raiders (32-10-1), who were the state champions in 2022. This matchup guarantees a high-level contest, further emphasizing the intense competition at this year’s tournament.

For Magnolia West, this marks a significant return to the state stage. Their last appearance in 2017 saw them reach the state semifinals, where they ultimately fell to Grapevine. This year presents an opportunity not only to go further but to potentially bring home the first state championship in program history.

**Championship Aspirations**

The winners of both semifinal matchups will advance to the UIL Class 5A State Championship game, scheduled for Thursday, June 6, at 4 p.m., also at Dell Diamond.

Dell Diamond, the home of the Triple-A Round Rock Express, provides a professional setting for these aspiring high school athletes, making the experience even more special. Reaching the state tournament is a monumental achievement for any Texas high school baseball team, and the Magnolia West Mustangs have undoubtedly earned their place among the state’s elite.

**Ticket and Broadcast Information**

Fans planning to attend the tournament can find ticket information and the full schedule on the official UIL website (www.uiltexas.org). For those unable to attend in person, select games, including the semifinals and finals, are typically broadcast live on Bally Sports Southwest or streamed online via the UIL website. Support for the Mustangs can also be found on local sports radio broadcasts and social media channels.