Weslaco's Martinez signs with Lindenwood

WESLACO - The Weslaco Panthers baseball team has had quite a streak when it comes to playing at the next level.

"So far, we are riding a four year streak on our guys playing college ball," Weslaco coach Eddie Serna said. "In 2004, Steven Davila walked on at UTPA and did an excellent job for the Broncs as a relief pitcher. Then, we had Jayson Rivera sign a letter of intent to UT-Brownsville in 2006 and Fabian Cuellar signed a letter to UT-Brownsville and Carlo Cordova walked on at Texas Lutheran in 2007. Now, we are signing another one today. It is always a good feeling when you have prospects represent Weslaco at the collegiate level."

David Anthony Martinez received a full scholarship to Lindenwood University in Missouri and signed his letter of intent on Wednesday at the Weslaco High School.

"To be honest with you, I really could not explain how I felt when I found out that Lindenwood was interested in signing me," Martinez said. "But, the day has finally come and it feels great. There is no better feeling than to be able to play baseball for four more years and get a quality education.

"I had other offers from some schools, but the scholarship that Lindenwood offered me was the best deal. Also, the weather is awesome and the campus looks beautiful. But, the thing that really attracted me was that they have a junior varsity program and I will be able to get some ample playing time as a freshman."

Ben Lopez, admissions counselor at Lindenwood, said that he was impressed with Martinez's hitting ability and that was what caught his eye.

"Martinez had a .368 batting average and is a very clutch hitter, and that was enough to sell me on him," Lopez said. "Also, his educational background is solid and he is an all-around athlete. He will probably start off on the JV squad, but I can guarantee he will get some playing time. In fact, he has a good shot of making the varsity squad."

Martinez said that he hopes he can open some doors for future athletes in the valley and get the same opportunity he got.

"I want to show Lindenwood University what the valley has to offer and that we have talent here when it comes to baseball," Martinez said. "Hopefully, I can open some doors for others for future athletes in this area, especially Weslaco."