The Mickey Leland baseball team is off to an impressive 7-1 start this season, thanks in large part to the leadership, experience and passion brought by three key players: senior shortstop Giovanni Medina, senior centerfielder George Clemons and junior pitcher/catcher Climon Hall. Their contributions to the team have been instrumental in creating a winning culture that has propelled the team’s early success.
“The experience, leadership and passion these guys bring to our team has been paramount to our success,” said Mickey Leland head baseball coach Marcus Watson. “They have worked to create a culture that fosters growth and selflessness.”
Medina, a four-year varsity starter, is known as the team’s utility player because of his ability to play multiple positions effectively—shortstop, center field and catcher.
Medina brings a wealth of experience to the team, continuously pushing himself to improve his game. Medina plays summer travel baseball with Up Top Prospects, but as an uncommitted senior, Medina knows how hard it can be to get noticed, so he has taken it upon himself to mentor freshmen players on the team. Hitting the weight room, getting on the field for long toss and staying consistent in the batting cages are just a few of the suggestions Medina has offered his freshman teammates.
“With our freshman, I took it upon myself to teach them the importance of a strong work ethic,” said Medina. “They expressed a desire to play in college one day, and I want to help them get there.”
Medina has not only demonstrated strong leadership but has also been crucial in the team’s quick start offensively. As the leadoff hitter, he sets the pace, utilizing his abilities to reach base and quickly contribute to the scoreboard with line drives from the following batters.
About Giovanni Medina:
Class: 2025
Twitter: @Gio_medina06
Position: Shortstop
Height & weight: 5-feet-9, 165 pounds
Favorite artist: Hermanos Espinoza
Status: Uncommitted
Favorite subject: Macro economics
Unlike Medina, Clemons has never played travel baseball but has always been deeply connected to the game through his grandfather, Trent Clemons, a former baseball star at Sterling High School.
“My grandfather’s love for the game rubbed off on me, I was more into football growing up,” said Clemons. “As I got older, my grandfather taught me how to field properly and worked with me on my batting mechanics.”
Clemons credits his grandfather with shaping his understanding of the game, particularly the importance of work ethic and the mentality required to succeed.
“When it came to training, grandpa always talked about the importance of being ready because someone can always take your spot,” said Clemons. “You can be next up, but it’s all about the work you put in. Recognize what you can do for yourself, your team and your teammates.”
As a left-handed hitter with speed, Clemons is an important asset in the outfield and on the base paths. His leadership extends beyond his performance. He brings a “big brother” mentality to the team, helping his teammates stay motivated and focused.
“I want to cheer for everyone and make everyone better,” said Clemons. “My specialty is my arm as I play outfield and getting the ball in quickly is very important to the team’s success.”
About George Clemons:
Class: 2025
IG: @Sni3per_
Position: Centerfielder
Height & weight: 5-feet-8, 180 pounds
Favorite artist: Young thug
Status: Uncommitted
Favorite subject: Math
Hall is the last piece of the Mickey Leland trio, a junior three-year varsity player, Hall is known for his ‘whatever for the team’ attitude.
“My freshman year, I stepped up and played catcher, a position I had never played before,” said Hall. “Over time, I got better at it and I’ve been doing really well this season.”
During the summer, Hall plays for the Light Blue team in the Houston Astros MLB Youth Academy, a program designed to increase the interest of inner-city youth in baseball.
In addition to his work behind the plate, Hall also serves as the team’s closer, stepping in when the game is on the line. His dedication to improving and willingness to do whatever is needed for the team has earned him the respect of both coaches and teammates.
Medina, Clemons, and Hall’s leadership and dedication have been central to Mickey Leland’s early success this season. Each of these players brings something unique to the table, but it’s their shared commitment to the team and passion for the game that has truly made a difference.
“We are who we are now because of the legacy they have carried and the leadership they’ve implemented,” said Watson.
About Climon Hall:
Class: 2026
IG: @sheluvc5_
Position: Catcher and Pitcher
Height & weight: 5-feet-6, 150 pounds
Favorite artist: Kendrick Lamar
Status: Uncommitted
Favorite subject: Math
