No. 10 A&M-Victoria sweeps DH with Texas College, Benitez sets single-season steals record

Antonio Benitez etched his name into the Texas A&M University-Victoria record book on Tuesday while helping lead the Jaguars to a doubleheader sweep of Texas College at Riverside Stadium.

Benitez became the program's new single-season stolen base leader during the afternoon as A&M‑Victoria combined for 21 runs across the two victories, winning 10-2 and 11-1. 

The senior shortstop reached base repeatedly, applied constant pressure on the basepaths and scored multiple runs as the Jaguars continued their strong stretch in conference play. 

A&M-Victoria rode that wave to improve to 31-11 overall and 19-4 in Red River Athletic Conference play. It's also the third-consecutive 30-win season for the Jaguars.

Game 1

A&M‑Victoria set the tone early in the twin bill, using aggressive baserunning, patience at the plate and timely hitting to secure the opening win over Texas College.

Benitez was central to the attack, reaching base multiple times and swiping several bags to surpass the previous single-season stolen base mark in the program's record books. His speed helped manufacture runs throughout the game as the Jaguars consistently put runners in scoring position.

The Jaguars showed offensive balance, generating runs through situational hitting and capitalizing on Texas College miscues. Contributions came from throughout the lineup as A&M‑Victoria steadily extended its lead and kept pressure on the defense.

On the mound, the Jaguars' pitching staff limited scoring chances and worked efficiently to keep Texas College from mounting any sustained rallies, allowing A&M‑Victoria to carry momentum into the nightcap.

Game 2

The Jaguars punctuated the sweep with an 11–1 victory in the second game, pulling away early and cruising behind another strong pitching performance.

A&M‑Victoria struck for two runs in the first inning before breaking the game open with a four-run fourth. Jose Montanez drove in three runs, while Garrett Smith and Ty Boozer each delivered RBI efforts. Beck Zimmerman turned in a two-hit performance, including an RBI double.

Benitez continued his standout day, scoring four runs while reaching base four times and adding to his stolen base total to further cement his place atop the program's single-season record list.

On the hill, Blane Zeplin earned the win after allowing just one run on four hits over five innings, striking out eight. Matthew Mejia followed with three scoreless innings out of the bullpen to close out the victory and secure the save.

Next up

The Jaguars and Steers wrap up the three-game series on Saturday at 12:15 p.m. with Senior Day, where 11 seniors will be recognized for their contributions to A&M-Victoria baseball.