Isaac Lopez Shines on Brooks Wallace Award Watch List
RIO GRANDE VALLEY – In an exciting announcement that highlights his remarkable performance this season, Isaac Lopez, a talented graduate student and Vela alum from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), has proudly secured a spot on the prestigious Brooks Wallace Award Watch List. This honor places him among the top 100 shortstops in the nation, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the game of baseball.
A Tribute to the Game
The Brooks Wallace Award is named in memory of former Texas Tech shortstop Brooks Wallace, who played for the Red Raiders from 1977 until 1980. Sadly, Wallace’s life was cut short by leukemia at the tender age of 27. Today, the award continues to celebrate the legacy of skill and determination he embodied, spotlighting the nation’s finest shortstops.
Lopez’s Stellar Season Stats
As the starting shortstop for the Vaqueros, Lopez has exhibited remarkable prowess both at the plate and in the field. His current performance speaks volumes:
- Batting Average: .359
- On-base Percentage: .425
- Slugging Percentage: .556
- Doubles: 10
- Home Runs: 6
- RBIs: 31
- Runs Scored: 39
- Stolen Bases: 6
- Fielding Percentage: .982
In just 34 games, these numbers position Lopez impressively in the rankings:
- 28th in the NCAA for sacrifice flies (5)
- 73rd in the NCAA for hits per game (1.50)
- 103rd in the NCAA for runs per game (1.15)
He is not just a batting powerhouse—Lopez ranks among the toughest players to strike out, with a striking average of just one strikeout every 8.9 at-bats.
Defensively Unyielding
On the defensive end, Lopez has been a rock, committing only two errors this season. Over the last 21 games, he’s showcased flawless defensive skills, underscoring his elite capability to handle the pressures of the game.
Quotes That Inspire
Reflecting on the talent displayed by Lopez and others on the list, Larry Wallace, co-chair of the Brooks Wallace Award, remarked:
“It’s a great time of the year when we get to start diving into looking at all the shortstops from around the country and who might best represent the Brooks Wallace Award this year. This list doesn’t disappoint with some stellar offensive numbers along with some outstanding gloves to represent the shortstop position.”
A Record of Consistency
Lopez has also shone brightly with 16 multi-hit games, including seven featuring three or more hits, alongside nine multi-RBI games, three of which included three or more RBIs. His current streak of 13 consecutive games reaching base demonstrates his resilience and consistency under pressure.
A Budding Legacy
As Isaac Lopez aiming high with his stellar performances, his nomination for the Brooks Wallace Award not only signifies personal achievement but also highlights the rich talent coming out of UTRGV.
For further insights and updates regarding the Brooks Wallace Award and to see other outstanding players recognized this season, check the details at the College Baseball Foundation.
Watch List Recognition
2025 Brooks Wallace Award Watch List
- Isaac Lopez, UTRGV, Southland
- TJ Salvaggio, Southeastern, Southland
- Zane Spinn, Lamar, Southland
- …and many more!
Lopez’s inclusion among such elite company reaffirms not only his talent but his potential influencing the future landscape of collegiate baseball. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as the season progresses!
To cheer on the Vaqueros, support UTRGV Baseball by visiting their official site and connect on their social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
