San Jac Baseball: Building on a legacy under new leadership
The San Jacinto College Ravens baseball team, led by first-year head coach Eric Weaver, is poised for an exciting season. Armed with experience and determination to break new ground, Weaver, who spent eight seasons as San Jac assistant coach from 2015 to 2022, brings a fresh perspective to a program hungry for success.
“It’s like Christmas morning,” Weaver said about his new role. “You’re opening presents, and not quite sure what you’ll get, but it’s clear we’ve got a strong core, particularly with our returning sophomores.”
Last year, the Ravens saw their season come to an earlier-than-expected end in the Region 14 Super Regional tournament but finished with a commendable 40-21 overall record. The team also boasted an impressive roster, with 11 players earning all-Region 14 South Conference or all-region honors.
Weaver is confident about the team’s chances this year, thanks to a solid mix of returning players and promising newcomers. The sophomore core, including standouts like Landon Bruce (Norman, Oklahoma / Norman North HS), Landon Hunt (Houston, Texas / Clear Brook HS), and McCabe Moyer (San Diego, California / IMG Academy) is complemented by a highly talented freshman class and mid-term transfers.
The Ravens have depth on the mound, with pitchers like Anthony Diaz (Katy, Texas / Paetow HS) and Ty Roman (Diboll, Texas / Leadership Christian Academy) offering both skill and experience. Weaver described Diaz as a fierce competitor.
“When I was at Blinn, we hated facing him,” he said. “Now, I’m thrilled he’s on our side.”
The Ravens aren’t shy about their ambitions. Weaver outlined a four-step roadmap: win the conference, host a regional, conquer a super-regional, and ultimately make it to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) World Series in Grand Junction, Colorado.
Hosting a regional would be a historic first for the program, a challenge Weaver eagerly embraces.
“We want to pack the stands, create an atmosphere, and give ourselves a real home-field advantage,” he said.
Weaver emphasized the importance of team chemistry in community college baseball, where rosters often turn over quickly. This year, the Ravens have a unique advantage with a significant number of returning players who have experienced being one game away from the World Series.
Our sophomores know what it takes to succeed. They lead by example, setting a tone for the freshmen and transfers.
Off the field, the Ravens are making an impact in the community. Events like the Military Appreciation Game and Challenger Game highlight the program’s commitment to giving back. The Challenger Game, which provides opportunities for special-needs youth athletes to participate in athletics, holds a special place in Weaver’s heart.
“Our players get just as much out of it as the Challenger athletes do,” he said. “It’s amazing to see the connection and growth.”
The Ravens’ schedule is loaded with elite competition, including matchups against powerhouses like Chipola, Northwest Florida, and Wabash Valley Colleges. Early-season road trips and tournaments will test the team’s mettle and foster the camaraderie needed for a deep postseason run.
“We’re excited to get going,” Weaver said. “The journey to Grand Junction starts now.”
Fans and opponents should prepare for a Ravens squad that’s focused, fearless, and flying toward greatness.
