Barrera made his professional debut with the Alpine Cowboys of the Pecos League in 2013, pitching in 7 1/3 innings in seven appearances. A four-year letterman at Howard Payne University, he led the Yellow Jackets with 54 strikeouts and 11 starts in 51 2/3 innings his senior season, posting a 5-6 record with a 4.18 ERA. Was 2-4 with 10 appearances in 2011, striking out 32 hitters in 34 innings. Played baseball and basketball at Central Catholic High, earning all-district honors in both sports and a team MVP award on the hardwood. Also threw a no-hitter against Lee High and a one-hitter against Smithson. Can throw with both arms. Graduated with a degree in accounting.