(PI starting pitcher Joseph “Jojo” Martinez at the mound during PI vs Hidalgo game. March 13, 2026. Picture by Constancio Martinez Jr)
By CONSTANCIO MARTINEZ, JR.
Special to the PRESS
On March 13, the Port Isabel Tarpons took on the visiting Hidalgo Pirates in a key district game. With both teams desperate to break their losing streaks, only one was able to snap their unfortunate streak by the night’s end.
PI’s starting pitcher, Joseph “JoJo” Martinez took to the mound and did quite well in the top of the first as he held the Pirates to no runs.
Things looked promising for the Tarpons in the bottom of the first as they got off three base hits. Unfortunately, the Pirates infield was able to close out the inning on throw outs before they could score any runs.
In the top of the second, pitcher Martinez was still holding the Pirates at bay by only giving up a base hit single. Offensively, the Tarpons were able to get a single from Larry Lohr, but not much else as the game remained scoreless.
In the top of the third, pitcher Martinez found himself in hole as his second walk brought a runner in while the bases were loaded. Martinez redeemed himself as the next outs came in quick fashion, but the Pirates now led 1-0.
In the bottom of the third, the Tarpons had their own bases loaded situation after base hits by Aiden Mock and J. Martinez. Next at bate, shortstop Edward Garza then had a solid hit up the middle for a single and RBI. Unfortunately, the next batter was thrown out at first for the final out, but not before the Tarpons tied the game up at 1-1.
In the top of the fourth, the Tarpons had the Pirates down to two outs, but Hidalgo was threatening with baserunners on second and third. With the final out on the line, SS Garza delivered a highlight-reel play as he made an impressive leaping catch for the final out. Offensively the Tarpons couldn’t muster much offense as the game stayed tied at 1-1.
The Pirates had a good offensive output in the top of the fifth with a triple and three singles which put them ahead 3-1. Meanwhile, the Tarpons continued to struggle at the plate and failed to add any more runs.
In the top of the sixth, PI reliever Grayson Estes entered the game with no outs and two baserunners. It didn’t take long for the Pirates to take advantage of Estes off-night as they jumped out to a 9-1 lead. PI coaching staff went to the bullpen again and brought in reliever Miles Moore. After Hidalgo increased their lead to 13-1, PI brought in reliever E. Garza who eventually got the final out, but not before Hidalgo increased their lead to 16-1. With the Tarpons unable to score any further, the game was called under the 10-run rule.
Port Isabel will be hosting the Valley View Tigers on Friday, March 27 at 6 p.m.