KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
RIO HONDO — When April Adames was 7 years old and Nayeli Garcia was 6, the two played Little League softball for the Dirt Divas. That’s where their friendship began.
Just over 10 years later and the duo is a part of the Rio Hondo Lady Cats softball team, and has been a key part of the team’s infield. This year Adames is a senior and plays first base while Garcia is a sophomore and plays third base.
Adames made her return to Rio Hondo this year after moving to Kansas her junior year. Prior to that, she grew up and played softball in Rio Hondo.
“I started the year at shortstop, but I moved to first base after Kayla (Castaneda) got hurt. I was able to fit in and felt comfortable, and I was able to contribute and help my team make plays. At first I was unsure when Coach told me, but I played first my freshman and sophomore seasons so it was just a matter of getting back in the grove, and it was like riding a bike.”
Through 16 games this season, Adames is batting .400 with 16 hits and 18 RBIs. Meanwhile Garcia bats leadoff and is batting an impressive .476 with 40 hits, 33 RBIs and 39 runs scored.
The corner infielders have developed a strong chemistry and despite this year being their first year together on varsity, the two haven’t missed a beat.
“When I play third, I would say, ‘hey, more action for me; third base is the place to be,’” Garcia said. “I love getting the ball and making the play across the diamond. On my select team I played first and pitched, but when I came to high school I always thought of playing third and Coach (Brett) Esparza gave me a shot to play third, and I’m glad he did because I love playing the position.”
Despite Adames moving to Kansas, Garcia and she and Adames’ relationship didn’t skip a beat. Once Adames returned home to Rio Hondo, the two picked up where they left off from their childhood.
Their friendship off the field has translated over to the field smoothly and currently has the Lady Cats in the regional quarterfinals where they’ll face Cuero in a best-of-3 series beginning tonight at Tuloso-Midway High School.
Last season, Garcia was a freshman and was a part of the team that advanced to the Region IV-4A final team. This year Adames is eager to be a part of another deep playoff run and is motivated by last year’s group.
“We have a strong chemistry both on and off the field, and we’re able to make plays without communication. We just click and always have each other’s backs,” Adames said. “Being a part of this team now and being able to help this team win a district title, and be back in the third round means everything to me.”