RIO GRANDE VALLEY – The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) baseball team is set to host its annual Orange and Gray World Series Nov. 6 and 7 at 6:30 p.m. at UTRGV Baseball Stadium.

Both games are open to the public and admission is free.

"It's a good time to see our talent and get a preview of who we are heading into the spring," head coach Derek Matlock said. "You'll see both teams, new pitchers who haven't thrown here before, and some exciting hitters. You'll get to see guys compete who don't get to play a lot in spring and that is exciting to watch. It's a great opportunity to see our new team and get a feel for Vaqueros baseball."

The Vaqueros have been practicing and scrimmaging throughout the fall as they evaluate new players and continue team development.

"We're trying to learn all our new players and personnel so that we can figure out who needs to play where," Matlock said. "Basically, who are the best offensive players, weekend pitchers… it's a lot of evaluation, but a lot of development too — especially on the defensive side. The world series is fun because it always brings out the best in everybody. It's competitive, and the kids really want to win."

Matlock said the coaching staff has been encouraged by what they've seen so far this fall.

"It looks like the offense will be really good, lots of home runs," Matlock said. "We're still working on some defensive parts, and a few pitchers are still coming back from injury, but everyone's putting in a lot of hard work in the weight room. We're getting to play and learn our guys, maybe put a new pitch on a guy and try to get them a bit better. The Orange and Gray World Series will be fun."

The intrasquad matchup gives players a chance to showcase their progress in a competitive setting.

"The kids love to compete against each other," Matlock said. "They're buddies, but they want to win — even if it's just a steak dinner or something on the line. It's fun to watch every year."

Matlock also highlighted several standout performers from the fall, including returning and new players.

"Julius Ramirez came back home after a great year at junior college and has been awesome to watch," Matlock said. "Rocco Garza-Gongora, our center fielder from Laredo, has really stood out, and catcher Andrew Taylor has been solid. We've seen some great athletes and guys who can really hit with power."

Looking ahead, Matlock says the program's goals remain high.

"We want to get to a regional," Matlock said. "We haven't been there since 1986. We have to put together a great full year, including non-conference games, and try to get an at-large bid if necessary. The teams are so good in the country — every game matters. Our goal is always to win a championship in the Southland and get into the postseason. The goal has not changed. This is a gritty conference with a ton of great coaches. Everybody can beat you from top to bottom, so we've got to be ready."