State Champions Celebrate With the Hooks
London Pirates Honored by Hooks as the Corpus Christi team returned home from a grueling two-week road trip, eager to celebrate local champions. In front of an energized crowd at Whataburger Field, the Hooks paid tribute to the Pirates for capturing their second state title earlier this month in Round Rock.
About a dozen Pirates players were in attendance, joined by Co-Head Coach Albert Amaya and a few student managers. For many seniors, the ceremony was a final chance to celebrate an unforgettable championship moment together.
“Cloud Nine”: A Victory Worth Savoring
“I think we’re all still on cloud nine,” said outgoing senior Zak Garcia. “We worked the whole season for that, so hopefully we can enjoy it a little bit longer.”
Indeed, the timing was special. With several seniors preparing to head off to college, the occasion gave them a chance to relive the joy they created as a team.
Coach Amaya, who played a significant role in leading the Pirates to the championship, expressed similar sentiments. “I haven’t seen them in a couple of weeks, so just us coming back together, it’s bringing back those good memories,” he said.
Hooks Open Second Half With Familiar Results
On the field, however, the night was less celebratory for the Hooks. They dropped their first game of the second half of the season with an 8–2 loss to the Northwest Arkansas Naturals.
Trevor Austin gave the fans something to cheer about early with a leadoff home run. But the excitement faded as starting pitcher Miguel Urias allowed four runs in 6 1/3 innings, taking the loss.
This loss continued a trend that plagued the Hooks during the first half of the season. With a 22–46 record, they finished last in the South Division standings.
What’s Next for the Hooks and Local Heroes
Despite the setback, the Hooks have five more chances to redeem themselves at home. They will continue their series against the Naturals at Whataburger Field before heading back on the road.
Meanwhile, the club is planning more tributes to local excellence. Later this summer, the Hooks will honor Calallen High School’s baseball and softball teams, both of which won state championships this year.
Local Pride on Display
The London Pirates honored by Hooks was more than just a ceremonial moment—it served as a powerful reminder of the tight-knit bond between Corpus Christi’s baseball community and its rising stars. This celebration highlighted the mutual respect and pride shared by local teams and their professional counterparts.
As the Hooks face a tough season, honoring local champions reminds everyone baseball celebrates grit, teamwork, and community pride.