“I think that’s just kind of ingrained in what we’re supposed to do,” the coach said. “But, the biggest thing is we just need to play well. They’re a very talented team. (John) Doxakis is a great pitcher that we’re going to have to face on Friday. We have our work cut out for us, but I’m really confident the way our guys are playing right now.”

A good crowd is expected for Friday’s game. Undoubtedly, it will include its share of rowdy Aggies, whose “Ball five! Ball five!” chant after an opposing pitcher gives up a four-pitch walk is one of the more underrated college baseball traditions around.

“Hopefully, we don’t get to ball three and we don’t have to worry about it,” Rodriguez said, smiling.

Besides the top-flight competition and the chance to play in a big-league park, the players also look forward to the Houston College Classic’s service opportunities. Since the event benefits the Shriners Hospitals for Children, teams are given chances to visit the Houston hospital and interact with the patients there. The Bears have, in particular, befriended a Shriners patient named Savanna, who suffered severe burns after backing into an outdoor patio heater at her home. She and her family will be in attendance at the tournament this weekend in Houston.