Magnolia West’s Historic Run Ends in Regional Finals

Magnolia West’s Historic Playoff Run Ends in Class 5A Regional Final Heartbreaker

**MUMFORD, TX** – The Magnolia West Mustangs’ Cinderella story and deepest playoff run in program history concluded with a hard-fought battle in the Class 5A Region III championship series, as they fell to the Georgetown Eagles in two tightly contested games at Mumford High School on May 30 and 31. Despite the heartbreaking end, the Mustangs capped off a remarkable season that saw them reach the regional finals for the first time ever and tie the school record for wins with an impressive 28-11 overall record.

The championship series against Georgetown proved to be a defensive showcase, with both games decided by razor-thin margins.

Game one, played on Thursday, May 30, saw Georgetown clinch a 2-0 victory. Magnolia West’s ace, Owen Farris, delivered a valiant effort from the mound, pitching 6 1/3 innings and allowing just two earned runs on five hits while striking out four batters. Offensively, Weston Peninger and Brayden Drake each contributed two hits for the Mustangs, but Georgetown’s Cade Cosgrove was unyielding, throwing a complete-game shutout that kept Magnolia West’s powerful offense at bay. The Eagles capitalized on key moments, finding just enough offense to take the early series lead.

The drama intensified in game two on Friday, May 31, leading to an even more nail-biting finish. Georgetown once again managed to shut out the Mustangs, this time in a 1-0 decision, effectively ending Magnolia West’s historic season. Caylon Dygert pitched a phenomenal complete game for Magnolia West, surrendering just one earned run on three hits and striking out three. His performance was a testament to the team’s pitching depth and resilience, but a single run proved insurmountable. Brayden Drake and Preston Planter were the only Mustangs to record hits in the tense, final contest. The loss prevented the Mustangs from forcing a decisive third game, bringing their unforgettable journey to a close.

Under the guidance of Head Coach Justin Koslosky, the Mustangs navigated a challenging playoff bracket with grit and determination to reach this unprecedented stage. Their path to the regional finals included a dominant bi-district sweep of Fort Bend Kempner (3-0, 5-1), followed by a hard-fought area round victory over La Porte (4-0, 2-1). The regional quarterfinal saw them overcome Santa Fe in another intense series (10-3, 1-0), before sweeping Barbers Hill in the regional semifinals (1-0, 10-0) to punch their ticket to the championship round.

Key offensive contributors throughout the season consistently delivered for the Mustangs. Weston Peninger concluded the year with an impressive .350 batting average, while Brayden Drake was close behind with a .345 average. On the mound and at the plate, Owen Farris and Caylon Dygert showcased their dual threat capabilities, leading the team with 33 RBIs each. Farris ended his stellar pitching season with a remarkable 10-2 record and a sparkling 1.48 ERA, while Dygert posted an equally impressive 9-2 record with a 1.94 ERA.

While the sting of a regional final loss in such close fashion is undoubtedly painful, the 2024 Magnolia West baseball team has undeniably etched its name into the program’s history books. Their historic playoff run, marked by tenacious pitching, timely hitting, and unwavering team spirit, has set a new standard for future Mustangs teams and left an indelible mark on the school and community. The foundation laid by this remarkable squad under Coach Koslosky promises a bright future for Magnolia West baseball.