Banditos Accept Scholarships.... 

J.P. Ramirez
"The Natural"

One of the most purest hitters ever to come across Bandito Land, if not THE best.  One thing that we will say about J.P., he will not be outworked.  At an early age, J.P. learned how to hit the right way.  Look away and react in and boy, did he look away and react in.  J.P. can hit for average and power.  He is very aggressive at the plate with tremendous bat speed.  J.P. will step in, as a freshman at Tulane University and be an immediate impact...if he steps on campus.  Major league experts project J.P. to go in the top 3 rounds in this years MLB draft.  By 2012, J.P, will be a .300+ hitter in the big leagues.  This could not be possible if it were not for the support that he received from his parents, especially Theresa, who always had him at practice and driving that extra mile to get him there.  Theresa, Thank you for letting J.P. being a part of our program.  It was an honor to have him and it would not have happened if it wasn't for you.  Congratulations to the Ramirez family...J.P., the sky is the limit for you buddy.  Ron Jones would be proud of you.  We also want to say hello to our friend...SELENA...lol!!

Chase Daniels
"Kong"

Mark Johnson has landed a power hitter like no other.  When it is all said and done, Chase Daniels will become one of the all time homerun hitters in Bandito history.  We still can't believe the year he belted 33 dingers in one season.  Chase has power to all fields and a rifle of an arm from the outfield.  Chase has a chance to be drafted in this years MLB draft.  One look at Chase and you will see the strength that this kid has.  A true competitor with a lot of upside.  Chase has matured into a great young man.  Chase, you are going to college buddy!  Keep working hard, your dream is right around the corner.  Still carries the #55 since he was 8 years old.  Congratulations to the Daniels family.  Donna and Phil, you have done a great job with Chase.  Keep hackin' and shake the haters off.  Good luck, see you at the cages!

Jose Rosales
"You Can't Run on Jose!"

When Jose came to us, he came to us as a shortstop. He played infield well, but we knew if he wanted a chance to play at the higher level soemthing needed to change. Boy did it ever. We converted him into a catcher and never looked back. Jose is blessed with a quick release behind the plate. Throwing runners out at will knicknamed him Es-a`. You can't run on Jose. Another great kid that has to work harder to better his situation on and off the field. Jose is going to college! We are very proud of him! Never in his wildest dreams did he ever think  that he would go to school and play college baseball. This kid is very close to our heart. You can't help but love this kid when you first meet him. Jose has earned everything that has been given to him. Mr. and Mrs. Rosales you have an awesome son that continues to make strides in life. We all know one thing, YOU CAN"T RUN ON JOSE! Good Luck Jose. Stay out of trouble. You are one step closer to the ultimate prize.

Bobby Loveless
"Big Horse"

Bobby has a body like Carlos Lee, big, strong, and powerful. I can not tell you how many big hits he got for us to win ou 9th National Championship. A dream four hole hitter that can hit for average and hit in the clutch. The first time I saw Bobby Loveless he shut down our Bandito team and hit a game winning homerun to beat us. I saw him and his Dad the next day and he said "Coach, I want to be a Bandito.  Do you think that I am good enough now?"  Loveless always wanted to be challenged.  He throws a 90+ mph fastball. He is a big force on the bump as well. We will be reading about Bobby Loveless in the very near future with the rest of this crop in this age group. Bobby you are on your way. Remember you a leader not a follower. Super nice kid with the brightest future in the game. He is going to a powerhouse junior college, Panola College, one of the best junior colleges in the country. Good Luck Bobby, your dreams are coming true.

Brett Parsons
"Smokin"

At 6'4, 215lbs Brett Parsons has a chance to go as far as he wants to in the game of baseball. Brett has one of the prettiest left handed swings that has come around Banditoland in a long time. His final year as a Bandito, he hit 16 HRs and 100+ RBI's in one season. Brett has a lot of ability and comes with great stock. One of the finest young kids I have ever coached. A coaches dream, he leds by example. I can not tell you how many times that Brett's leadership was a factor on winning the National Championship. A superb kid on and off the field. We have always told Brett that he could do whatever he wanted to do as long as he believed in his game. I think he is starting to believe. Again, at 6'4, 215 lbs, he is making a run to the next level. Do not be surprised if you see Brett playing everyday for some Major League Team. You can sit there blindfolded through the whole game and you would hear Brett at the plate. The bat makes that weird noise when he hits. It is kind of hard to explain. The ball just jumps off his bat. Good Luck Brett, we will keep in touch. Be good.

Taylor Grote
"The Man"

When I first met Taylor I knew he had the goods. Taylor is one of those kids who didn't handle failure too easy. As years went on he matured into one of the best 5 tool players that I have ever coached. It was such a pleasure working with Taylor. He made my job easy. Any fly ball in the air was swallowed up, you talk about a guy that could cover some ground. This kid would go through a brick wall for you. One of my all time favorite kids. This kid will walk into a room and all heads will turn. His has an air about him that I can not explain. We spent alot of hours together working on the finer points of the game. Taylor is a true student athlete who is also gifted in the classroom. Taylor has the heart to make it to the big leagues. His left handed stick comes with alot of pop. Don't be surprised if you see Taylor Grote drafted in this June Amatuer draft by MLB. I can recall a month ago while traveling to Atlanta with the 12U Black we met the cross checker head scout of the Florida Marlins and he had Grote's swing on his computer monitor checking it out. He said, that Taylor had one of the best swings in the country. Congratulations David Grote, You worked your butt off to raise a great young man. All the luck in the world. You make a great role model to all Bandito players. Dreams do come true. One step closer Taylor, Don't stop now buddy.

David Prahm
"Mr. Wally Pipp"
 

Picking up David Prahm in the 2003 season was one of the reasons why we won that year. David is atotal team player. When he came on this team, he had to understand his role. He started off as a pinch hitter and a pinch runner. Didn't play much, but David and his parents stayed positive. Somebody got hurt and he got his opportunity. And boy, did he take advantage. David has a chance to play pro baseball someday. This kid works his butt off. David if anybody deserves success, you do! We are very proud of you! THis kid can run, and hit to all fields with the best of them. One of the prettiest swings in the game. San Jac justed landed a stud. Way to be a team player David. We all should learn from you. We are all proud of you. See you on the field.

Jerad Stevens
"The Surgeon"

 When putting this team together we started off with arms. At eleven years old we knew that Jerad had the goods. The Banditos Ace did things like no other Bandito before. This kid pitched with his mind. Not the hardest thrower, but knew how to handle the strike zone. Developed his out pitch with confidence. The best slider I have seen in years. Baffled hitter after hitter. Jerad has turned into a pro prospect. He throws 88-91mph and has an 85mph slider to go with it. A tough decision to pick which college to go to. Miami, Vanderbilt, Baylor just to name a few. Mark Johnson from Sam Houston State just landed a horse. Sam Houston will be back on the map with Mark at the wheel. What a great start by signing Jerrad. Everyone if you get a chance, come watch Jerad pitch at The Woodlands High School this year. Jerad you are on your way, Congratulations to you and your family.

Russell LaFleur
"Cheetah"

Another clutch player. Big game after big game, this kid continued to deliver. Two outs, two strikes, down by two runs with bases loaded. Game Over! Russell is coming to the plate. He brings a big league arm and has tremendous foot speed. Just fun watching him run. Missouri just landed Gary Matthews Jr. If the ball is in the air, not too worry Russell is there. One of the most polite kids around. This kid comes ready to play everyday and doesn't say a word. Russell will continue to improve and get to the next level. Don't be surprised that he gets drafted this year. Again a model citizen a kid with class. Well deserved. To the LaFluer family your baby is taking the next step, be proud you raised an awesome young man. Get it done Russell.

Mickey Armstrong
"The Boss"

A true leader, another clutch hitter going to College. Since day one Mickey has been able to perform in hostile situations. Mickey will have a bright future at Texas Tech, a student athlete and a flat out nice kid. This kid can control a game behind the plate like no other. A leader on and off the field. Mickey is a definate Bandito role model. No surprise Mickey is on his way to the higher level. Any coach would be proud to have Mickey on the squad. Great Job Mick, we had some great times. Congratulations Meli and Jim! One step closer to his dream. Texas Tech just landed a stud. Say hi to Danny Amendola for us. See you soon.

Jacob Banda
"Nacho"

This kid plays with alot of heart. He was not blessed with size, but his heart made the difference. "Put me in Coach", "Put me in Coach". He always wanted to pitch the big game. In 2002 we will never forget the game he pitched and won at Nationals. His arm was falling off and he was sick that week . Banda stepped up in a big way hitting 7 HRs for the tournament and pitched his heart out to get the team to the National Championship Final. Don't sleep on Banda. This kid has turned himself into a student athlete. A big time role model for Bandito Baseball. Congratulations Jacob!

David Alleman
"Iron Man"

One look at David's body and you know he was born to play this game. David is the ultimate gamer who won two National Championships with the Banditos in 2002 and 2003. David is a five tool player who is blessed with a god given ability. He works his tail off and can play the outfield with the best of them. David in 2002 was hit by pitch 42 times. David knows how to get on. A switch hitter with pop from both sides of the plate. David will play for a long time. A&M just landed a horse. David will be joining fellow Banditos Blake Stoffer who starts RF as a freshman and Catcher Kevin Gonzales. Good Luck David. Congratulations to the Alleman family. Hard work does pay off.

Cody Podraza
"Flash Gordon"

March 14th, 2006 Cody is the fastest kid that I have ever coached. No doubt. This kid will continue to play at the higher level. Cody loves the game of baseball. He will be playing professional baseball someday. He will play center field and 2nd base. McLennan Community College just landed a table setter. One of the best lead off hitters in Banditos History. Cody can change the outcome of the game better than anyone around. I once recall Cody stealing home to win the State Championship in 2002. A switch hitter with some POP! Good luck Cody! Congratulations, you are on your way. 

Ross Watson
"The Big Cheese"

March 14th, 2006 A definate leader. Now you know why Ross is going to Westpoint. One of the best competitors you will ever meet. Ross has potential to throw in the mid 90's. He has command of three pitches and never was afraid to pitch the BIG game. He also packs a powerful bat as well. This kid can beat you with his arm or with his stick. A definate college player. Not only is Ross getting to play college baseball for Westpoint, he is getting the best education around. Keep working hard Ross. By the look of things you have it all under control. Ross was a member of the Ultimate Dream Team in 2000-2003. We are very proud of you Ross, good luck! You never know what comes next, dreams do come true!

Diego Seastrunk
"The Play Maker"

September 19th, 2005 Diego can beat you with his 5 tools. Rice landed a stallion. This kid has the potential to be in the big leagues at 21 years old. He can hit for power from both sides of the plate. He can steal 50 bags for you. And can gun you from all outfield positions. He has a cannon. Diego always came through in the clutch, part of the 2002 team that won 78 games in a row. One look at Diego and you know he means business. His body is like a sharp edged rock. In one game with the Banditos in 2001, he hit a homerun from both sides of the plate. A super nice kid that is a big time role model for all youth. Diego also excels in the classroom, a well rounded young man. Gary and Elsa, congratulations on Diego's success...you guys deserve it. Don't stop now. You are our Future Star! thanks for being a Bandito Role model. See you soon.

Kevin Gonzales
"PUDGE"

August 10th, 2005 I can't say enough about this kid's desire to play the game at the higher level. This guy will throw you out from his knees. Kevin Gonzales is heading to Aggie Land. Kevin was a part of two National Championships with the Banditos. One of the original 11 players of the 2001-02 class, the Dream Team! Texas A&M found their man. A team leader that always has what it takes to play in the clutch. This kid never stops talking, cracking jokes, laughing keeping the dugout alive. Let's not forget about his bat, Kevin will catch you slipping with his stick. How 'bout that walk off HR in extra innings at Nationals? Kevin, we are very proud of you. You will see Kevin catching in Pro-Ball very soon. Keep working hard Kevin.

Ryan Jenkins
"Bruno"

August 10th, 2005 I knew at 11 and 12 that Ryan had the goods. Ryan can beat you with his arm or with his bat. Another clutch player that delivers in the big game. Baylor doesn't know what they landed. Ryan will dominate at the college level. Scouts bring your check books it's gonna cost ya! Ryan has a way to beat hitters with his mind. Ryan will pitch in the Big Leagues very soon.A student of the game who keeps improving every day. Ryan holds the Bandito record to date for playing 74 games with out an error at 3rd base. WOW!  One of my favorite all time Banditos. Everybody Loves Ryan. A class act kid. Congratulations, your dreams are coming true Ryan! Baylor here we come!

Aaron Miller
"The Real Deal"

August 10th, 2005 I will say it now...This kid has the best pure swing that I have ever seen in youth baseball. I love my lefties, but this kid is special. Aaron has that leadership quality that we wish all of our kids had. Not only can he beat you with his stick, he can beat you with his speed. Let's not forget about his arm, a 90 plus fast ball. Aaron is a five-tool player that will definately play Big League baseball. Baylor just landed another horse. One look at his swing and you will know what I am talking about. A student athlete who takes pride in his academics.  A big time role model for all Banditos. I saw Aaron at 13 years old hit a ball 400ft. Are you kidding me? Great Job Aaron, we are proud of you. The sky is the limit, keep working hard.

Taylor Davis
"The Punisher"

This kid was my number#1 draft pick in little league. I first met Taylor at 10 years of age, and I knew then that he had a chance to play at the higher level. Taylor comes with a live fastball and a big bat. His fastball has been clocked at 87-92 mph. Panola College just landed a stud. This kid has size, in the game of baseball  today strength is very important. Taylor knows the game of baseball in and out. The sky is the limit for Taylor. This kid works very hard and has a great personality to make it. Taylor you are on your way. Keep doing the things that you are doing.  Your parents, and the Banditos Baseball Organization are very proud of you.

David Gaines
"The Matador"

David Gaines is another original Bandito. I met David when he was 10. Again I knew he had the skills to develop into a great catcher. David has a great work ethic. He is a polished catcher that has a chance to go further than college. Hill College just landed a horse behind the plate. David has gap to gap power and has a cannon for an arm. He dares runners to run on him, with a 1.8 second release to second. WOW! You may see David catching for a major league organization someday. Great job David we are all proud of you.

Braxton Watson
"The Professor"

Braxton was apart of the original gang. Not only can Braxton hit, Braxton is a stud on the mound. If a hitter has a weaknesss, he will find it. Braxton is a student of the game. His fastball is from 87-92 mph, and he has an above average hammer. Braxton has sliced and diced hitters since he was 10 years old. You will definately see this guy pitching above college. Braxton is blessed with great parents. Chad you are the man. Chad Watson was my first GM of Banditos Baseball Club. Thanks Chad. I would not be here without you starting me off.

Bradley Suttle
"Chipper Jones"

Like I called it 4 years ago, Bradley Suttle signs with UT.  Bradley will be in the show by his 21st Birthday. This kid has size, switch hits, and throws a 90+mph fastball. He was part of the first Bandito team that won The first National Championship. This guy is the "Real Deal". From the first time I saw Bradley I new he was a gamer. Bradley has the potential to be one of the only players to hit and pitch at Texas. A well rounded student athlete that has touched my heart in more ways than one. A model class citizen. Texas just landed another horse. Boy Coach Harmon, you make it look so easy. Congratulations to the Suttle family. You should be very proud.

 Kyle Walker"A Survivor"

I met Kyle when he was 10 years old in Little League. This kid has one speed....hard. He is like his father very hardnosed, no quit. Kyle was on the orginal Bandito team with most of the guys listed below. A lot of critics never gave Kyle a chance because of his size. One look at his Dad and you knew it was just a matter of time. And all of a sudden BOOM! Hello.... Kyle Walker has arrived! Over the summer of his Sophmore year he took off. Kyle is one of the top prospects in America. Yes, I said it. Kyle will also be playing Pro Ball some day. Put that in writing. He carries a huge bat with alot of pop. He runs like a deer and throws a 90+mph fastball. Kyle you deserve everything that comes to you. Remember shake them haters off. Your family is very proud of you. Have a great senior year. State Championship Baby!

Jordan Dodson Handles "The Grease"...

If you need a strike out, a BIG hit or a Big pass Jordan is your man. At an early age we knew this kid had it. I can't count how many times Jordan was thrown in the hot grease, only to come out cool as ice. This kid probably has more raw power than anyone I have ever coached. Jordan will be a threat with his stick. If you want to see a kid hit a ball 450ft...here is your guy. Not only can he hit, he throws a 90+mph fastball with a nasty slider that he picked up. Forget About It! If you thought Rice had a pitching staff, think again, Jordan will fit right in. Do I hear top 10 rounds? Another 5 tool player. We are proud of you Jordan, Richard you have done a great job. ENOUGH SAID.

Blake Stouffer Big League Juice...

Blake comes with 5 tools. This kid can hit from both sides of the plate, hits for power, he can throw, has a great mental approach, and best of all he runs 4.4 forties! Can you imagine this kid running from the left side? Blake comes from great background stock. His Dad was a SS at UT. Nice household. You will definately see this kid in the starting lineup as a Freshman. We are very proud of you Blake. Keep working hard you are one step closer.

Matt Ghigna Packs A Big Punch...

Hit Hit Hit...Matt Ghigna can flat out rake. A left handed hitter that can pull the ball with the best of them. The sky is the limit for Matt. Don't be surprised if Matt hits 10 Homeruns this year! This kid has turned into a hitting machine. The Airforce Academy just landed a clean up hitter with some sock! Congratulations Matt. Everybody is Proud of you!

Troy Patton The Future Star...

Troy Patton accepts scholarship from UT. Are you kidding me? Hwy 290 West here we come! Congratulations Troy! You have made everyone proud. I saw Troy at 11 years old, and I knew then this kid was special. Troy has a magical arm with Big League presence. He brings a 90 to 95 mph fastball. Troy is also a student athlete. Troy is one of the "Original Banditos", who is a great role model for the younger upcoming Banditos. You will see Troy pitching in the Big Leagues very soon. Scouts bring your check book, its gonna cost you. Hey Dave, Robert has some jackets for you! Congratulations to the Patton Family.

David Macias Overcoming Odds...

Vanderbilt just landed another Stud! Congratulations David. You have worked hard and everyone is proud of you. David was one of the main reasons I started the Banditos, I wanted him to get away from Daddy Ball, no one gave this kid a chance.  I had to convince him at 11 that Motor Cross wasn't his sport. Now at 5'9 170lbs, no one would have ever thought  that David had the size and strength to go to the next level. They were wrong again. They forgot to add to the equation the size of his heart. David WILL play beyond college, Put It In The Book! One of the original Banditos, Boy What A Class!

Shea Robins On his way...

Shea Robins accepts Vanderbilt Scholarship. This kid at 10 years old could hit anybody's fast ball, a pure hitter. Shea was one of my first lessons in The Woodlands. When I first saw Shea I knew he was a gamer. Vanderbilt just landed a Baseball Player. We are proud to include you as a Banditos Role Model, we can all look up to. Good Luck Shea! You are on your way to the Ultimate Dream! Don't stop Dreaming.

Danny Lehmann One Step Closer...

Congratulations Danny. Danny Lehmann has been recognized, receiving a scholarship to play baseball with the # 1 powerhouse Rice Owls. You are one step closer to acheiving your ultimate DREAM. You are the first Bandito to reach this level. Danny you are a great role model on and off the field. Always remember that Baseball is a game of luck, and the harder you work the more luck you seem to have. Great Job Danny, we are ALL proud of YOU! One Step Closer...

Astros sign Troy Patton Chronicle Wire Reports July 26, 2004The Astros today signed left-handed pitcher Troy Patton from Tomball High School, the club's ninth-round selection in the June draft. Patton, who will report to the club's affiliate in Greeneville of the Appalachian League, was 12-0 with an 0.91 ERA during his senior season at Tomball High.