Socorro’s very own Brandon Montoya was selected to play in the state’s baseball all-star game on June 3 and 4.

The selection came after coach Raymond Gonzales nominated Montoya. His nomination then went to the district where the district coaches voted.

Socorro senior Brandon Montoya was selected to play in the state’s baseball all-star game. Montoya is a Socorro High School graduate of the class of 2022.
Jared Marquez | Courtesy photo

Montoya says that the All-Star game wasn’t really on his mind when the season had just started. “We were making our way back from the past season, which was pret­ty good because we had a playoff run. So, I was just really focused on getting back to the post season.”

Baseball wasn’t always Montoya’s first choice when it came to sports.

“When I was younger, I liked baseball, but it wasn’t always my favorite sport. Growing up, I gave football and basketball most of my attention,” he said.

“It’s crazy because coming into high school, I didn’t even really want to play baseball, but once I was on the team, I realized just how much I enjoyed the game. I stopped playing football and basketball to focus on baseball after my freshman year.”

Baseball is a game of signals and chem­istry. For Montoya his relationship and chemistry with his catcher was important.

“If your catcher doesn’t know how to set up, it is going to be a tough day. Everyone throws differently and has their own tendencies. Depending on the pitch the catcher has to get to the spots where the ball is going to be,” Montoya said.

As a 2022 Socorro High School gradu­ate, baseball trips and spending time with his teammates is what Montoya will miss most from high school.

“My favorite memory was the trip to the Las Vegas tournament,” he said. “The trip was really fun and the games as well. Overall, I just had a great time with my teammates.”

Montoya plans to pursue baseball at a collegiate level and has even been in con­tact with various colleges around the U.S.

“To any future baseball players, just have fun,” he said. “Work hard but remem­ber to enjoy the game.”

Juan Baeza, El Defensor Chieftain Intern