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Marco Diaz: Bringing the Heat
At just 23 years old, Marco Diaz has quickly become one of the world’s fastest and most electrifying pitchers. Throwing upwards of 83 miles an hour, he suits up for the Hill United Chiefs (both in 2024 and 2025) wearing jersey #7. Hailing from Ensenada, Baja California, Marco grew up playing for the Juveniles of Ensenada Baja California before taking his talents to the global fastpitch stage.
Early Beginnings
Marco’s path to the pitcher’s circle began at 17 years old, inspired by his father, who played on an amateur team. “I loved how fast-paced softball was compared to baseball, and seeing my dad play really sparked my interest,” Marco explains. With mentors like Panfilo Valdez, Julio Rodriguez, Samuel Villalvazo, Carlos Caro, and Adam Folkard guiding him, Marco learned the fundamentals that would eventually shape him into a dominant force on the mound. "I want to thank coach Muizelaar as well" Marco mentioned with great respect.
Pre-Game Rituals and Life Outside Softball
Before every start, Marco sticks to a simple yet meaningful ritual: crossing himself. “It grounds me and reminds me to stay focused,” he says. Away from softball, you’ll find him playing video games, vacationing, or hanging out with friends. Off the field, he also helps manage a family business, balancing the grind of professional athletics with real-world responsibilities.
Challenges and Goals
“Every out is a challenge,” Marco admits. “But the biggest was recording the final out at the ISC—whether it was a strikeout or not, that moment was nerve-wracking and thrilling.” His main personal goal is to “stay on top of the mountain” by continuing to improve and maintain his velocity and accuracy. As for the Hill United Chiefs, he says, “Our team goals and personal goals are the same because we’re one unit. We want to win at every level we compete in.”
Being one of the hardest throwers in fastpitch comes with intense pressure to perform. Marco remains humble: “I always give 200% in every game, and I’m really focusing on keeping the ball in the strike zone. That’s where we can capitalize on our defense.”
The ISC Experience
For Marco, competing in the ISC World Tournament is the pinnacle of his career. “It’s the biggest tournament in the world,” he says. “The competition is incredibly high—every team has elite players who can turn a game around in an instant.”
One of his favorite memories is the Hill United Chiefs’ last victory at the ISC. “We practiced every day and took care of our bodies with regular treatments,” he notes. “When we finally lifted that trophy, it was the best feeling in the world.”
Marco advises newcomers to “enjoy every single moment” of the ISC and to soak up knowledge from seasoned veterans. “I’ve had the chance to play alongside and against players like Adam Folkard, Erick Ochoa, Lenny Villalvazo, Huemul Mata, and Edgar Lopez. They inspire me to push my limits.”
Pushing the Sport Forward
Looking ahead, Marco sees men’s fastpitch growing worldwide—especially if more media outlets and TV networks get involved. “If we give opportunities to players who can’t represent their countries internationally, and we get broader coverage, fastpitch will continue to expand.”
He believes organizations like the ISC play a vital role by creating competitive platforms that showcase the sport. For young players, Marco emphasizes three core skills: mental strength, physical conditioning, and genuine love for the game. “I split my bullpen sessions with long-distance throws, then add afternoon workouts. But remember—fastpitch is 80% mental. You have to prepare yourself to handle pressure and keep evolving.”
Follow Marco Diaz
While Marco stays busy lighting up the radar gun, you can follow his journey off the diamond:
Instagram: @Marco_diazm
Facebook: Marco Diaz
With a fierce fastball that tops 83 mph and a relentless drive to improve, Marco Diaz is poised to leave his mark on every tournament he enters. Keep an eye on the Hill United Chiefs’ young ace—because when Diaz takes the mound, it’s must-watch fastpitch action.
Why We Celebrate Player Profiles
Player Profiles showcase the talent, passion, and dedication of the stars who make the ISC World Tournament one of the most exciting events in men’s fastpitch. By sharing their journeys, we aim to inspire the next generation, grow awareness of the sport, and highlight the athletes driving fastpitch forward around the globe.
