PRESQUE ISLE, ME
The UMPI Baseball roster has been growing significantly throughout the summer, and today Head Coach Tim Burns announces yet another recruit that will be an immediate difference maker for the Diamond Owls. Diego Maldonado of El Paso, Texas becomes the newest Owl, and second recruit from the Lone Star State to join the squad.
A prominent dual-sport athlete at Montwood High School, Maldonado was a standout two-way player who played primarily first base but has experience pitching and playing the outfield.
With the bat, Maldonado recently hit .302 this past season, on 27 hits, an astounding 16 of those hits were doubles. He drove in 24 runs as well for the Rams. On the mound, he made nine appearances, earning a 3-0 record and a 1.91 Earned Run Average over 18 and two-thirds innings pitched.
Maldonado's incredible numbers were enough to earn him the Montwood High School Varsity Baseball Player of the Year award. He also was named to the 2025 Tournament of Champions first-team. Montwood appeared in the Texas 6A playoffs in 2022-23 as well as 2023-24, which is the highest level of high school baseball in Texas—one of the most competitive scenes in the country.
Maldonado certainly made his stamp throughout his high school career, as his coach Willie Romero could attest
"Diego Maldonado will be known as one of the most trusted first-baseman we've ever had at Montwood High School. Diego also proves to be a valuable offensive asset. He demonstrated a powerful swing and a keen batting eye, driving in runs and getting on base when it mattered most. Beyond the statistics and highlight reel plays, Diego consistently embodied the spirit of a true teammate, showcasing a positive attitude and unwavering support for everyone on the team. He is also one of the smartest players we've ever had, is a true scholar on and off the field. Montwood High School is very proud of all he's accomplished thus far, and we are excited about what the future has in store," Coach Romero said.
As for Maldonado himself, he's just pumped to play college ball. "I'm extremely grateful and excited for the opportunity to play for and represent UMPI Baseball.
Maldonado intends to study Exercise Science starting this fall. His new Coach, Tim Burns is more than ecstatic ecstatic about Diego's commitment. "Diego is a tremendous young talent, hailing from the ever-talented baseball state of Texas. His presence on the baseball program will be felt immediately. He brings to the table an incredible lefty arm, solid defense, and a potential middle of the order bat. He has the workings to be another two-way star for us. More than excited to have him join us, watch him excel as a player and the program excel with him in it. Welcome to Owls Family Diego!" Burns said.
