Metea Valley baseball coach Steve Colombe has long been aware of Diego Bastidas’ talent. Diego’s older brother, Daniel, previously played for the Mustangs before transferring to Middle Tennessee State. “We’ve known about Diego for a while now,” Colombe stated. Diego is quickly becoming recognized in the high school baseball community.
Diego began the season with the frosh/soph team, contributing as a catcher, infielder, and pitcher. Colombe explained, “We needed a little more depth at the varsity level, and he’s probably the first guy we gave an opportunity to.” Diego’s debut against Waubonsie included an impressive RBI triple.
Metea Valley’s Diego Bastidas bats against Neuqua Valley during the Class 4A Plainfield North Regional quarterfinal in Naperville.
Diego shone in his playoff debut, hitting from the No. 9 spot. He went 2-for-4, with two RBIs and a run scored. The Mustangs, seeded 17th, managed to upset 16th-seeded Neuqua Valley 9-5. With this victory, Metea Valley advances to face top-seeded Lockport.
Colombe remarked, “It’s huge, it’s one of the best games we’ve had at a clutch time.” Diego’s defensive skills were crucial. After Neuqua Valley took a 1-0 lead, Diego picked off a runner and threw out a steal attempt, shifting the game’s momentum.
“I’m always trying to be aware of my surroundings and what’s going on,” Diego said.
In addition to his defensive prowess, Diego’s offensive contributions were significant. Following a walk, his single and subsequent advance helped set the stage for a three-run homer by Tyler Gluting, extending the Mustangs’ lead.
Gluting, who is headed to Oklahoma, praised Diego, stating, “Coming out as a freshman halfway through the year, he got started right away. I definitely like him behind the plate. His hitting is just as reliable.” Diego demonstrated resilience, facing older players without hesitation.
Despite a comeback attempt by Neuqua Valley, Diego maintained the team’s lead with a two-out double in the sixth inning. When asked about his strengths, Diego emphasized defense. “I’ve always prioritized that,” he noted, though he’s working on his batting.
“I just try to be a leader even though I’m one of the youngest guys,” Diego said.
Diego emulates professional catchers like Salvador Perez and Yadier Molina for inspiration. “The seniors always guide me,” he said, “I’m vocal out there, doing what I can for the team.”
Colombe sees Diego’s potential and likens him to Waubonsie Valley’s Shane Torres, who also began varsity as a freshman. Diego looks forward to further playoff experiences, saying the team aims to maintain their momentum against Lockport.
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