After reaching the State Tournament for the second consecutive year – and the seventh time overall – the Pearland Oilers fell just short of claiming their first title since 1980, losing 4-1 to Tomball in Round Rock last spring. With valuable experience gained, this year is about seizing that opportunity.
Coach David Rogers enters his sixth year at the helm, relying on a talented core to reach their goal. Texas A&M-commit Nico Partida is back for his final year in the high school spotlight, after earning District 23-6A MVP and UIL-6A All-Tournament honors a year ago. In addition to his impeccable play on defense and at-bat (.414 BA, 7 HR, 41 RBI), Partida can just as easily make an impact when pitching (5-0), alongside junior Grant Shepherd.
Fellow All-Tournament selection, Walker Hurst, brings senior stability to the outfield, and continues to build his reputation as a collegiate prospect. Southern Mississippi commit Cade Adams (Sr. C) will anchor the defensive side, while all district second-teamer Ashton Arredondo (Jr. 1B/LHP) and Brady Brewer (Jr. DH) add further depth to the batting order.
With the Oilers shifting to District 22-6A in the UIL realignment, there’s a whole new slate of opponents to conquer. But, that will only be the beginning for a group that is aching to make history.