Gilbert Barrera Signs Professional Contract

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Gilbert Berrera and the Alpine Cowboys

BROWNWOOD, TX (05/17/2013)(readMedia)-- Howard Payne University left-handed Gilbert Barrera signed a contract to play profession baseball with the Alpine Cowboys earlier this week.

The Alpine Cowboys are a team in the Pecos League. Other teams include: Las Vegas Train Robbers, Raton Osos, Roswell Invaders, Santa Fe Fuego, Taos Blizzard, Trinidad Triggers, and White Sands Pupfish.

"I was really glad they offered me a contract being that they won the Pecos League Championship last season," said Gilbert Barrera. "I think we're the youngest team in the league and also the most talented. They invited me to their spring training and decided to sign me after seeing me in just one outing."

The Cowboys are managed by Ryan Stevens and assistant Matt Lynn. The pair led the Cowboys to last season's Pecos League Championship.

"We are very proud and excited about this opportunity for Gilbert as he makes the transition to professional baseball," said HPU head baseball coach Stephen Lynn. "Gilbert is very deserving of this opportunity. Over his time with HPU baseball, he developed into one of the best arms in the conference. We wish him the best of luck and success as he makes the jump to the next level."

A four-year letterman for the Yellow Jackets, Gilbert had his best season in 2013 with a 4.63 ERA and a team high 49 strikeouts. He recorded a career high 10 strikeouts earlier this year versus Simpson College.

"Coach Ryan Stevens and his staff have done a good job bringing us all together seeing that there is only three guys on the roster from Texas. We have high goals for ourselves so I'm very happy to be with this organization," added Barrera.

From San Antonio, Texas, Gilbert already graduated from Howard Payne with a degree from Howard Payne in Business and was currently enrolled in the HPU MBA program.