LAS VEGAS, N.M. — Peter Ortiz is putting his faith in the 505.

"New Mexico kids have a home here at Luna Community College," says Ortiz, the second-year head baseball coach.

It's more than just words. Of the 38-player roster, 35 are from the Land of Enchantment. Their hometowns run the alphabet, from Bloomfield to Santa Fe, with Dexter, Jemez Pueblo, Las Cruces, Portales and Raton in between. That's not all the zip codes, but you get the idea that Ortiz is serious about building a home-grown program.

"Many times kids from New Mexico have had to go out of state to play," says Ortiz. "I believe that at some point we can produce a national championship team with kids from New Mexico."

The Rough Riders are no misnomer. At least, so far. In two seasons, their win-loss record is 4-96. This year, though, is different.

"For the first time this season we are offering scholarships," says Ortiz. "The second biggest addition is our coaching staff."

Darren Wheat and Kevin Christensen, former New Mexico Highlands University baseball players, have joined the coaching staff. Another addition is Marcos Aragon, a former West Las Vegas High School standout.

It's a building block as the team prepares for its season opener at New Mexico Junior College in Hobbs on Feb. 2. It's not the sole one.

"Right now, I see us being a lot better," says Ortiz. "We've increased our team speed, pitching, hitting and field. Virtually all aspects are better."

Last season was completely forgettable.

"We lost 16 games by two or less runs," says Ortiz. "And we beat the number six team in the nation in Indian Hills Community College from Iowa."

Ortiz's pitch wooed Levi Hannon.

"I look at this as an opportunity to get better and sharpen my skills. This is a young program on the rise," says Hannon, a graduate of Capital High School. "I think it's a real sharp decision for me to come here. Sometimes it's difficult to go and make a name for yourself at a four-year program straight out of high school. My goal is to play here two years and transfer to a four-year college."

It's a road that's already been taken. Five former Rough Riders are playing for NCAA Division II and NAIA teams.

"More and more kids are realizing that Luna Community College is not only a great place to play baseball but a great opportunity for an education," says Ortiz.

Baseball is the only game on campus. But not for long. Come fall, Luna Community College is expected to field its first softball team.

"Having athletic programs here is a good addition to the college, community and state," says Ortiz. "I think New Mexico has one of the best high school talent pools in the nation. People need to know that we have our door open for them."

It's come-one, come-all.