by COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The Mountain West announced their first edition of the weekly player and pitcher of the week awards on Monday and University of New Mexico junior right-handed pitcher Aaron Makil (Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community) has been tabbed as the league’s Pitcher of the Week.
A native of Scottsdale, Ariz. and junior college transfer, Makil made his Lobo debut over the weekend and pitched 6.0 scoreless innings helping the Lobos to their first shutout of the season. In his start, Makil scattered three hits, three walks and struck out six batters.
The turning point of the game for Makil and the Lobos came in his final inning on the mound in the sixth inning. In that inning, BYU had the leadoff batter reach second base on a throwing error. Makil then had to face the 3-4-5 batters of the BYU lineup with the potential tying run at the plate each at-bat.
The Lobos defense helped out as Harry Fullerton made a diving play in right field for the first out. On the play, the runner advanced to third. Makil then registered a swinging strikeout on three pitches to record the second out. Following a walk, Makil got out of the inning and ended his spectacular Lobo debut on a harmless popup to shortstop.
Makil’s opening weekend pitcher of the week honor marks the second-straight year that the Lobos have had a pitcher take home the first weekly conference award. Last year it was Nathaniel Garley who won the initial plaudit.
Way to go young man. Arron Makil you are so awesome! Keep making your family proud. And remember your dad is right there with you. One more thing? Keep your composure! Play your game and shine like the star you are. Sepulveda’s love ya man!