GAMES
RANKINGS
COUGAR NATION: Cinco Ranch Has Bona Fide Star Power In Franco
Audiences saw Cinco Ranch cruise to yet another district title last spring, which is no small feat given the high level of competition within 19-6A. The Cougars then advanced three rounds into the postseason, before ultimately falling to Memorial in a hard-fought three-game series.
Heading into the 2025 season, coach Brett Wallace and his staff are fortunate to bring back the majority of their key players, including a trio of district first-teamers: Lucas Franco (Sr. SS), Josh Morelli (Sr. RHP), and Dylan Muniz (Jr. C). Franco, a TCU-commit, will continue to be Cinco’s most reliable hitter, after posting a .405 average with 30 RBIs last year.
Morelli, committed to Pratt CC, served as the team’s ace in 2024, finishing with a 7-3 record and an outstanding 0.97 ERA. His chemistry with Muniz, a standout catcher, will be critical to the team’s success.
When Morelli needs a break, fellow senior pitcher Jonny Blackman (2.54 ERA) is ready to step in and keep opposing hitters off balance. Furthermore, juniors Drew Tureau (OF) and Kason Ficarra (3B) round out a potent lineup that should be one of the most formidable in the area.
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THE TIGERS: Katy Geared Up For Deep Playoff Run
As usual, Katy will be a force to be reckoned with heading into the 2025 campaign. After advancing to the third round of last year’s postseason, the Tigers will likely be poised for a similar run in May, if not better.
However, first, they’ll need to navigate a competitive district featuring Cinco Ranch, Tompkins, Taylor, and Seven Lakes. Third-year head coach Wes Hearne will rely on an exceptionally deep bullpen to keep the district title within reach. Senior right-hander Connor Udland (Houston commit) will continue to be the ace on the mound, following a standout 10-2 season with a 1.61 ERA.
In addition to his pitching, Udland was just as effective at the plate (.306 BA), earning himself District 19-6A MVP honors. Senior RHP/1B Cade Nelson (TCU) is another key arm (5-1, 0.94 ERA), while fellow TCU-commit Aiden Barrientes and junior Jayden Stewart (Houston) round out one of the most formidable units in the Houston area.
On the offensive side, junior shortstop Ashten Ballew is expected to play a starring role. After posting a .364 batting average and earning District Newcomer of the Year honors in 2024, Ballew will be crucial to Katy’s success this season.