Although the Brazos Valley Bombers came up short in their bid to claim a Texas Collegiate League championship, the 2009 season was a summer full of excitement and new memories. With improvements on and off the field and new records set, the 2009 season was a stepping stone for many great years to come.

Although the Bombers season did not end as hoped, the team made strides in many areas and showed signs of greatness at times. Battling injuries at critical points in the season, the team finished with a 19-27 record and was then defeated in the first round of the playoffs by the first-place Victoria Generals.

Joaquin Hinojosa led the way for the Bombers during the 2009 season and was named to the All-TCL team for his efforts. Hinojosa tied for the league-lead and tied the Bombers all-time record with four home runs and also finished second in the league with six saves. In 16 innings of work, he did not allow a single earned run and struck out 27 batters.

Clifton Thomas became an instant fan favorite, as he brought excitement to the ballpark with his devastating speed. The star center fielder set the team record with four triples and also stole nine bases, while leading the team with 25 runs scored.

Drew Flaniken and Travis Smith also made their way into the books, as Flaniken tied the all-time record with five wins and Smith set three new records with 54 innings pitched, 10 starts and 51 strikeouts.

Outside the white lines, the Bombers enjoyed plenty of success as well. With new theme nights such as Model-T, Go Green, Stars and Stripes, Strikeout Cancer, and Goldfinger night, Brazos Valley Bank Ballpark was booming with excitement every night.

The Bombers set the new Texas Collegiate League record on July 3 with 1,865 fans in attendance, breaking last season’s high of 1,684. Brazos Valley also set a new record as the Bombers totaled 30,585 fans for the season.

The Brazos Valley Bombers would like to thank all of their sponsors, fans and everyone who made the season possible. With three seasons under their belt, the future is bright and next season figures to be an even greater success.