Athlete of the Week: Hank Warren

HARLINGEN, Texas ( ValleyCentral ) — Hank Warren grew up watching his older brother play baseball and fell in love with the sport at three years old and it has been his passion ever since.

“I mean, that’s kind of what it’s all about just having fun,” said Warren. “Obviously, putting a smile on your face puts a smile on your teammates and the fan’s face. So it’s awesome to be in this position doing that.”

However, baseball has tested Hank. He underwent Tommy John surgery two years ago. The surgery never allowed him to debut for his Community College in Northeast Texas.

Last year was his first with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and he was used sparingly.

“Looking back at it, you know, you learned to respect the things that you get and you earn so it looks it makes you look at things you know you have to earn it, you don’t just get things given to you. So it was a great thing to earn something.” Warren said.

In order to find playing time on the field Warren needed to switch positions. The former infielder turned right fielder is now healthy and showcasing what he can do. He is among the team’s leaders in runs batted in.

“Well he had a great high school coach who coached Brandon Belt,” said Coach Derek Matlock. “Brandon Belt was a long-time big leaguer for the Giants first baseman their coach that high school coach told me coach this guy is going to hit more and better Brandon Belt. I was like, alright, that’s pretty good guys.”

Personal accomplishments are one thing but Hank believes the same team that beat Texas in April can make it to the regionals.

“There hasn’t been a team that I feel we should have lost to and something needs to be said,” said Warren. “I feel like you know, I feel like we’re one of the better teams out there.”

For a player who has waited for his opportunity, Warren and his teammates will be looking for their next big moment.

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