Aug. 19, 2004

University of Texas - Pan American standout Marco Garza (Mission, TX/Sharyland H.S.) signed a professional baseball contract with the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday (Aug. 19). The Broncs' infielder will report to Spring Training in February.

"This is something that Marco always wanted," said head baseball coach Willie Gawlik. "We talked on a consistent basis about how his goal was to play professional, and now it's exciting to see him earn the opportunity. We are going to miss him, but I know that all of his teammates are pulling for him to succeed at the next level."

During the 2004 season, Garza led the Broncs in batting average (.356), hits (64), at-bats (194), runs scored (44) and tied with 28 RBI en route to earning first team All-Independent honors. He was also second in doubles (10) and third in stolen bases (11).

Garza broke Leo Salinas and Matt Siskowski's record for all-time hits when he collected his 190th career base knock against Oklahoma (May 15). He also set a UTPA single-game record with seven hits against Oral Roberts (Mar. 21), which was tied for third highest in NCAA Division I history.

Garza will join the Cincinnati Reds' organization with former Bronc Jesse Gutierrez, who was named the Most Valuable Player of the Southern League All-Star Game in Chattanooga, TN, on July 13th.

UTPA Sports Information