Gabe Watson '21 Recruiting Profile

The first time I put on catching gear I was 5 years old.  My older brother started playing baseball and I went to his first baseball game, watched the catcher, and became obsessed.  A few weeks later I asked for catching gear for my birthday and my mom got me the chest pad, knee pads, the helmet, and  a glove and I wore all of it every single day.  I mimicked everything I saw catchers do whether it was at a little league game or watching the MLB on television.  I had my family out in the yard every night pitching to me so I could catch.

Playing catcher is still my passion today.  I have learned a lot in playing the position of catcher over the years.  I have learned that catching is not only about being focused on every single pitch but also about leadership – communication of what is going on in the game, keeping everyone apprised of the current outs, plays to be made and initiating those throw-downs for those daring to steal a base.

I also play outfield, primarily right and left field.  I enjoy the challenge of playing different positions and helping my team in any way needed.    

By nature I am pretty quiet but baseball brings out the extrovert in me and I willingly and enthusiastically step up and take charge in game and practice situations but I also really enjoy being part of a close-knit group of guys that share the same passion as I do.  

It is my goal to play baseball after high school.  I would love to play catcher or outfield and am willing to play/do whatever it takes to be of value to any team that I am part of.  I have played select baseball and traveled to Indianapolis for the Bullpen Tournament, to Atlanta, Georgia for the Perfect Game tournaments, have played in Perfect Game showcases and many V Tool tournaments in Texas.  I was named to the All Tournament Team, Offense in the Perfect Game tournament in Atlanta in 2019.  

I believe I not only have the talent to compete for a college team, but the character, work-ethic, and leadership skills to make an immediate impact on your program.  I know I have what it takes to be a leader on your team.