Watson Commits
By JOHN LOUIE PANLAQUI
A look at Manteca High junior Rex Watson’s baseball career at Manteca High. Watson, who has been on the varsity team since his freshman year, has committed to the University of San Diego.
SOPHOMORE – GP: 22, Avg: .388, OBP: .470, Hits: 26, RBIs: 7, Runs: 19, HR: 1
FRESHMAN – GP: 18, Avg: .293, OBP: .319, Hits: 12, RBIs: 11, Runs: 6, HR: 1
2021-2022 RECORD – 12-9, fourth in the VOL
2022-2023 RECORD –11-14, fifth in the VOL
FORMER CLUBS – Manteca Little League, Manteca Baseball Club (MBC), Nor-Cal
As Manteca High’s baseball season quickly approaches, all eyes are on junior Rex Watson, a University of San Diego commit.
Watson didn’t choose the University of San Diego for its sunny, beachside location, but because of the team’s chemistry. The Toreros program felt like a family during his visit, immediately putting the Buffalo star at ease with his decision.
“University of San Diego, when I went to visit, I just had a really family vibe with their team,” he said. “So really the team chemistry with the teammates and the coaches was what pushed me to commit.”
Watson has all the characteristics of an outstanding student-athlete. His grades are nearly perfect, and he’s driven to succeed, on and off the diamond. He is entering his third year at the varsity level, while sporting a 4.0 grade-point average.
"He is a 4.0 student; he does a great job in the classroom. He has a great relationship with staff members and coaches,” Manteca High baseball coach Mark Ruiz said. "Secondly, he is a leader on the team. He leads by example, and he does a great job.”
Ruiz had some reservation about moving Watson to the varsity team as a freshman. Many aren’t ready for the rigor of varsity baseball, but Watson cut his path with leadership, poise, and an explosive bat. He hit .293 with a .470 on-base percentage. He also had 11 RBIs, 12 hits, six runs, and a home run. His production improved as a sophomore: .388 batting average, one home run and seven RBI with 26 hits and 19 runs scored.
“It was a tough decision because he was a freshman,” Ruiz said. “Ideally, I didn’t want him to be on the team, but just his leadership even as a freshman and obviously his skillset led him to our team. It worked out for him.”
Though Watson is only a junior, he committed early, finding a home that will help grow his mind and big-league resume.
“I’m hoping to excel as a baseball player,” he said, “and hopefully get drafted after being there for a few years.”
Manteca High student Colton Murillo contributed to this report.
