Manuel Pena Named Texas League All-Star
The former Amarillo star earned All-Star honors after a dominant offensive performance in the Texas League.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Baseball
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The Texas League has named Manuel Pena an All-Star following his prolific offensive tenure with the Amarillo Sod Poodles. Pena played 61 games for Amarillo before his promotion to Triple-A Reno on June 16.
Why it matters
Pena dominance in the Texas League established him as a premier power threat, leading the circuit in multiple offensive categories during his time in Amarillo. His performance earned him league-wide recognition as one of the most effective hitters this season.
Pena finished his time in Amarillo with 26 home runs, 64 RBIs, 14 doubles, and 48 runs scored. Over his tenure, he amassed 40 career home runs and 205 career hits for the Sod Poodles franchise.
The players
Manuel Pena
He is a professional baseball player who led the Texas League in home runs, RBIs, and OPS before his promotion to Triple-A Reno.
Amarillo Sod Poodles
They are a professional Minor League Baseball team based in Amarillo, Texas, that competes in the Texas League.
Arizona Diamondbacks
They are a Major League Baseball franchise that manages the Triple-A Reno team and the Amarillo Sod Poodles.
The details
Pena achieved significant milestones during his time in Amarillo, including setting a franchise record with 11 home runs in May and homering in five consecutive games in April. His consistent output also secured him both Player of the Week and Player of the Month honors earlier in the season.
Timeline
April 3, 2026: Opening Day of the Texas League season.
April 11-16, 2026: Pena homered in five consecutive games.
June 16, 2026: Pena was promoted to Triple-A Reno.
September 22, 2026: The Sod Poodles play Game 2 of the Texas League Championship.
September 23, 2026: Potential Game 3 of the Texas League Championship.
Season Trajectory
Pena's selection reflects a high-water mark for the Amarillo organization, which continues its postseason push in the 2026 Texas League Championship. His mid-season departure remains a pivotal point in the club's offensive strategy for the remainder of the schedule.
Pena's absence from the current championship roster leaves a significant hole in the Sod Poodles' lineup, where he previously accounted for a franchise-record monthly total of 11 home runs. His statistical output in the Texas League remains a key metric for scouts tracking the current championship rotation.
The takeaway
Recognizing a standout performer like Pena underscores the importance of individual development within the minor league system. Fans can track how these rising talents impact the postseason success of their local affiliates throughout the final series.
What happens next
The Amarillo Sod Poodles are scheduled to compete in Game 2 of the Texas League Championship on Tuesday, September 22, with a potential Game 3 scheduled for Wednesday, September 23.
Further reading
For more on the current standing of the local club, visit Baseball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KVII.
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