Former Mayfield pitcher Gera Sanchez

Sanchez enjoys success at junior college level
By Felix Chavez
Sun-News reporter
LAS CRUCES — As a high school pitcher at Mayfield High School, Gera Sanchez was one of the best in the state of New Mexico.
As a junior he won 10 games for MHS in helping them advance to the Class 5A semifinals. Last year as a senior, he went 9-2 with 93 strikeouts in helping lead the Trojans to a runner-up showing in 5A.
This year at New Mexico Junior College in Hobbs, the talented right-hander is 8-0 for the Thunderbirds with an earned run average of 1.84.
“Things are going well, I’ve moved up to the No. 2 spot in the rotation,” Sanchez said. “I’m locating my fastball better and I’ve dropped down some on the release point at times. My curve and slighter are good as well. The competition is good at this level.”
New Mexico Junior College won the national championship in 2005 and was second last year. So far this year, the Thunderbirds are 35-5 and ranked No. 4 in the latest National Junior College Athletic Association Poll.
“We have a good team and there is an expectation here to do well,” Sanchez said. “Our goal is to get back to the Junior College World Series and we have a chance to do that with this team.”
Mayfield head baseball coach Miguel Gomez said Sanchez’ success at the junior college level is no surprise.
“Gera is a resilient pitcher,” Gomez said. “In no way am I surprised that he’s competing as well as he is. I knew he had to add some weight to his frame and the last time I saw him, he appeared stronger. He’ll be able to go longer and the future is bright for Gera. He’s very competitive and he has different pitches that he can use effectively.”

Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@lcsun-news.com