By MARIO AGUIRRE | STAFF WRITER
MISSION — As a freshman, Mission Veterans Memorial’s Edward Peña was part of a baseball team that missed the playoffs.
“It left a real sour taste in our mouths,” Peña said, “and we didn’t want to feel that again.”
That competitive spirit drove Peña to lead the Patriots not only to consecutive playoff appearances, but back-to-back district titles. And it’s part of the reason why he signed early to play for UT-RGV next season, hoping to eliminate any distraction in Mission Vets’ pursuit of a third district crown.
“It’s exciting (to sign),” Peña said Thursday. “But I’m glad to finish it up before the season rather than afterwards, so that my main focus could be on this season and accomplishing our goals.”
For the past three seasons, Peña has filled a variety of roles. He played second and third base his freshman year. And as a sophomore and junior, he switched to shortstop and third. He’s pitched all three seasons, and intends to help there again this year.
“He’s a versatile kid,” Mission Vets coach Casey Smith said. “He works tirelessly. Obviously he’s got above-average athletic ability, and he’s just got a knack for the game.”
Last season, Peña was the 4A state leader in RBIs (53) and batting average (.588). The year before, he totaled 55 RBIs and batted .512.
He was named to the all-state first team the past two years as a pitcher, and last season as a third-team pitcher, as well. In 2012, he was touted the district’s top newcomer. The year after he was named the district’s pitcher of the year, and after that he was named district MVP.
“I think the accolades kind of speak for itself,” Smith said. “He’s meant a lot to our program, both on the mound and on the plate. He’s just a high-character kid.
“He brought the program respect. We were kind of a doormat until 5 years ago, and he’s been a major reason why we were district champs.”
Peña said he was recruiter as an infielder, though his role could change as next season approaches. The biggest relief for him was signing with UT-RGV on Thursday.
“I really didn’t want the burden of letting it go into the season,” Peña said. “Now that it’s finalized, I can just work toward our season.”