Zayeck Pacheco, the young man from Mezquitic who dreams of reaching the Major Leagues

In the heart of the northern mountains of Jalisco, amidst mountainous landscapes and indigenous traditions that define the identity of Mezquitic, a young man was born 15 years ago who today aims high: Zayeck Eli Pacheco Cosío , a right-handed pitcher who recently caught the attention of the Philadelphia Phillies , one of the most historic organizations in Major League Baseball.

His name began to circulate widely after the Puebla Pericos' showcase on October 3rd at Hermanos Serdán Stadium. There, under the watchful eye of Charlie Gastelum, a Phillies scout , Zayeck pitched with determination and velocity, reaching fastballs of 88 to 90 miles per hour. His performance made him one of the most promising young players at the event and put him on the radar of a Major League franchise.

A DREAM THAT WAS BORN IN THE VILLAGE

“I started playing baseball when I was six years old in a children’s league in my town . My family always liked sports, especially baseball, and from the beginning I had the support of my mom and dad,” Zayeck says in an interview with EL INFORMADOR.

At that age, the diamond was just a playground and a source of fun for him. However, as time passed, his passion transformed into a life goal. His talent began to emerge, and invitations to tournaments in different states across the country became frequent. “That’s when I realized that baseball was no longer just a hobby, but a dream I could achieve,” says the young pitcher.

In a place where opportunities are often limited, the support of the community and key individuals was crucial. Zayeck acknowledges the support of César Rolando , a friend and mentor who, along with his team, believed in his potential. “He was the one who made us see that we had a future in baseball. Thanks to his help, several academies began to take notice of me,” he recalls.

THE LEAP TO THE PARAKEETS

Pacheco Cosío's path to the Puebla Parrot Academy began almost by chance. "We received an invitation for a summer course in Aguascalientes , but at first I didn't want to go because it was expensive," he recounts. However, fate had other plans. The Mezquitic municipal government decided to cover the costs, and Zayeck accepted the opportunity.

“At first I saw it as just another experience, but in the end everything turned out very well. I managed to catch the attention of the Pericos scouts because of my height and speed,” he says. That's how he entered the academy on August 26, just a few weeks before the Showcase that would change his story.

For a month and a half, he trained with discipline and determination, honing his control and strengthening his arm. When the day came to showcase his talent, he struck out all three batters he faced. His speed and maturity impressed the scouts, who didn't hesitate to recommend him.

THE PHILLIES ARE KNOCKING ON THE DOOR

The Phillies' interest was immediate. "The scout told me they liked my control, my fastball, and my changeup," he recounts excitedly. Shortly after, he received word that a manager from the organization would be coming to see him. That meeting was decisive: "That day I managed to throw a 90-mile-per-hour fastball. I left very happy."

That same night, the academy's management gathered all the players. Zayeck will never forget what he heard: he had reached an agreement with the Philadelphia Phillies. “It was incredible. I called my parents and my friend Rolando to tell them. I couldn't believe it. It was what I had always dreamed of,” he recalls with a smile that betrays both pride and humility.

THE NEXT STEP

Now, with his sights set on continuing his development in the Dominican Republic , Zayeck is focused on growing as a player and as a person. “My goal now is to keep improving my level and arrive in the Dominican Republic at my best to continue pursuing my dream of playing in the Major Leagues and making a living doing what I love,” he says with conviction.

Although his future points toward international professionalism, Zayeck hasn't forgotten his roots. His story is a source of pride in Mezquitic, a town that now sees him as an example of what can be achieved with effort and perseverance.

A YOUNG MAN WITH HIS FEET ON THE GROUND

At his young age, the pitcher knows that the road to the Major Leagues isn't easy. But if he's proven anything, it's that discipline can overcome limitations . "Everything is possible if you believe in yourself and work for it," he says.

And although his future is tied to the Phillies, his heart remains divided between the diamond of his passions. “I’ve been a Dodgers fan since I was a kid, because of the great players who have played there and because of their philosophy. I think they can win the World Series because of their pitching rotation,” he confesses with a laugh.

With his powerful fastball and an inspiring story , Zayeck Eli Pacheco Cosío represents the new face of baseball in Jalisco : talent, character and dreams that are launched at full speed towards the Major Leagues.

YC