Felipe Leal Garcia†
Inducted 2000
Hometown: Matamoros, Tamps., Mexico
College: Pan American University
Best Known for: Athlete – Baseball
May 29, 1943-September 15, 2010
Leal-Garcia was an outstanding pitcher who rose to the Class AA level, after an All-American career with Pan American College. Leal was one of the best the Broncs ever had. His nickname was “Brazo Fuerte,” which is Spanish for “Strong Arm.”
A Matamoros native who was a basketball and baseball star for St. Joseph Academy in Brownsville, the right-hander scored more than 1,000 points in basketball. He went from Texas Southmost College to Pan American College in 1963, enjoying three outstanding seasons. He became the second Bronc to toss a no-hitter, set a program record for wins, and led the team to the NAIA playoffs in 1963 and 1964.
He still ranks fourth in wins for the Broncs, third in strikeouts. After his Bronc career, during which he made All-America twice, Leal was signed by the California Angels in 1967 and pitched at Class AA level in Albuquerque. He played for several teams in the Mexican Leagues from 1965 to 1979.