Imagine spending weeks assembling a puzzle, only to discover one crucial piece is missing at the end. That’s precisely the dilemma the Bowling Green State University [BGSU] baseball faced until a senior from Dickinson, Texas, fit perfectly into the picture.

Landon Roque, former infielder at Lamar University, started his BGSU baseball career in August 2023… in a bit of a time crunch.

The normal process for recruiting usually takes months due to coaches getting to know potential recruits, their personalities and skills. Roque was admitted to BGSU just two days before the school semester began.

Head Coach Kyle Hallock said that Roque was just the player he needed and in a time crunch.

“Landon Roque; funny story. He was looking to extend his baseball career, and we needed an infielder,” he said.

Roque said last year was stressful while trying to nail down a place to play his senior year of collegiate baseball. BGSU wasn’t the only place looking to recruit him, though.

“There were a few other schools across the country. I chose here because it felt right,” said Roque. “Something was telling me to come here, and I took that chance, and now I get to be with these amazing guys.”

Making the trek from Texas to Ohio was quick, and Roque had no connection with the team beforehand. He said they were buddies in no time, making Ohio feel like home.

“I moved into my house, and all of the guys were in there,” he said. “They helped me unload the U-Haul in five minutes. I knew it would be a good year.”

Roque said the decision to come here was stark and undeniable.

“I prayed about it and then I took a nap,” he said. “I woke up to a call from our assistant coach and he told me I was in.”

He thanked his parents for their support and his faith for the opportunity to come to Bowling Green.

“I’m thankful that God brought me here,” said Roque. “I couldn’t be more blessed to be in this position; I love all these guys.”

Hallock said Roque brings a different angle to the team coming from Texas.

“He’s got a cowboy hat and boots,” said Hallock. “He’s learning what the Midwest is like, and the team is learning what the South is like and how everything is bigger in Texas.”

Not only does Hallock praise Roque’s abilities as a player, but the team shows Roque support as well.

“When good things happen for him on the field, everyone goes nuts,” said Hallock. “He deserves every good thing that happens to him.”

With Roque’s senior season wrapping up and his life in Texas waiting, Hallock said he is happy with his performance as a Falcon.

“I hope the next guy we get has half the impact Landon Roque has on our program.”