Softball all stars take the field one final time

MISSION - For the number of All-Stars in the Fourth annual RGV East-West All-Star senior showcase, the traditional seven innings of play aren't enough. o expect nine innings of top-notch softball tonight at Sharyland High School. Game time is 7 p.m.

The East all-stars will once again be coached by Edcouch-Elsa skipper Joey Palacios. Sharyland's Paul Cruz will handle the lineup card for the West.

"They're wonderful kids, not just softball players" Palacios. "This is something they'll always remember and hopefully they treasure the opportunity. It's an honor to be surrounded by these kids."

Cruz, the only coach of the West team throughout the event's history, had plenty to rave about concerning his club.

"On paper, we should win this game," Cruz said. "But they (East) have got some girls that are pretty good, though."

The West, which holds a 2-1 advantage in the relatively new showcase, once again has a star-studded lineup. est pitching duties will be shared by All-Valley Pitcher of the Year Roxanne Rodriguez (PSJA North), first-team All-Valley hurler Monica Rodriguez (La Joya), Mission's Celina Garza and Mission Veterans' Clarissa Garza.

Other first team All-Valley selections on the West team are Mission catcher Melissa De Leon and outfielders Vanessa Bautista (Sharyland) and Clara Trevino of PSJA North. he Lady Raiders had five representatives on the team.

For the East, Valley Freedom Newspapers' All-Valley MVP Jennifer Garcia (Harlingen) is expected to pitch along with Harlingen South's Krystal Leon, Hanna's Sam Martinez and La Feria's Clarissa Casas.

"We're blessed with tremendous pitching," Palacios said. "As far as who's gonna start, we can'g go wrong with any of them. It will be a game time decision."

Porter outfielder Kory Flores, and Mercedes second baseman Heather Alvarado, each first team All-Valley picks, will suit up for the East. ther standouts include San Benito third baseman Tanya Parra and South infielder Bianca Canales.

Meanwhile, Cruz said the West does not want an even series and wishes to keep their advantage.

"I told the girls, ‘I don't think you want to drop the ball and make the series 2-2'," Cruz said. "It's the last chance for a lot of these girls to play."

The game will also serve as a dress rehearsal for college and junior college scouts. Cruz said at least three to four schools will be represented with scouts tonight.

Armando Garza covers high school softball for Valley Freedom Newspapers. He can be reached at 956-430-6255 or at armandog@valleystar.com.