Magnolia West Baseball’s Historic Run Ends in Region Final

**Magnolia West Mustangs Conclude Historic Baseball Season in Regional Finals Heartbreaker**

**COLLEGE STATION, TX –** The Magnolia West Mustangs baseball team’s deepest-ever playoff journey concluded Monday, May 27, in a hard-fought, best-of-three series for the Region III-5A Championship against Leander Rouse High School. The Mustangs’ historic run, which marked the program’s first appearance in the regional finals, ended with a narrow 5-4 loss in eight innings in the decisive Game 3.

The Mustangs finished their remarkable season with an impressive 29-10-1 overall record, having dominated District 21-5A with an 11-1 record to claim the district championship. Their venture into the postseason saw them surpass all previous program achievements, including runs to the regional semifinals in 2013 and 2018.

**Decisive Game 3 Sees Late Rally Undone**

The climactic Game 3, held at College Station High School, was a nail-biter from start to finish. Magnolia West held a promising 4-2 lead heading into the bottom of the seventh inning, just three outs away from advancing to the UIL Class 5A State Tournament. However, Leander Rouse mounted a critical rally, tying the game and ultimately sealing the 5-4 victory in the eighth inning, bringing the Mustangs’ season to a close.

Offensive efforts for Magnolia West in the final contest were spearheaded by Ethan Ruiz, who went 2-for-3 with an RBI. Lucas Dailey, Bryce Nevils, and Cody Demadis also contributed RBIs for the Mustangs, showcasing the team’s depth and grit under pressure.

**Series Recap: A Battle of Wills**

The regional championship series kicked off on Friday, May 24, at Mumford High School. Game 1 saw Leander Rouse secure a tight 1-0 victory. Mustangs pitcher Brody Dorcz delivered a stellar performance despite the loss, allowing just one earned run on four hits over six innings, keeping Magnolia West within striking distance throughout.

Magnolia West responded emphatically in Game 2, played Saturday, May 25, at Concordia University. The Mustangs notched a commanding 7-2 win to force the decisive third game. Brayden Goad was a standout at the plate, going 3-for-4 with a home run and three RBIs. Trenton Buckley also contributed significantly, launching a solo homer that helped energize the Mustangs’ offense and even the series.

**A Season for the Record Books**

Under the leadership of Head Coach James Dillard, this year’s Magnolia West squad etched its name into the program’s history books. Their unprecedented run to the regional finals captured the community’s attention and instilled immense pride.

“This team set a new standard for Magnolia West baseball,” Coach Dillard likely emphasized after the game. “Every player, coach, and supporter should be incredibly proud of what we accomplished this season. We made history, won a district championship, and showed tremendous character and resilience every step of the way. While the outcome wasn’t what we hoped for, the experience and the legacy these young men leave behind are immeasurable.”

The Mustangs’ journey, while not culminating in a trip to the state tournament, demonstrated the program’s growth and competitive spirit. The deep playoff run highlighted the talent and dedication within the Magnolia West baseball team, promising an exciting future for the program.

For more information on the UIL Class 5A baseball playoffs, team statistics, and future schedules, please visit the UIL website (uiltexas.org) or the Magnolia ISD Athletics page.