Eagle baseball star Watkins chooses Motlow

Former Shelbyville Central baseball standout Michael Watkins recently signed to play at Motlow State Community College. With Watkins are his parents, Teresa and Billy Watkins, along with Shelbyville Central coach Brad Frasier, back left, and Motlow coach Dan McShea. (T-G Photo by Gary Johnson) [Click to enlarge] [Order this photo]

Michael Watkins recently signed a letter of intent to continue his education as well as his baseball career with Motlow State.

The talented recent Shelbyville Central graduate and four-year member of the Golden Eagle baseball team feels the community college in Tullahoma was the perfect fit.

"Motlow has always had a great baseball program and the fact that it is close to home was important for me as well," Watkins said.

A product of the local youth leagues, Watkins has excelled in the sport at every level and was named to the All-District 8-AAA team his senior year.

He played shortstop and was the team's closer on the mound while posting a near-.300 batting average.

"Our season didn't end the way we wanted, and I'm very happy that I get the chance to play in college. I really never dreamed that I would get to play at the next level when I was younger, but I'm thankful for the opportunity to do so," Watkins said.

Eagle baseball coach Brad Frasier said that Watkins' attitude and hard work are the key to his success.

"Michael loves to play the game of baseball, and I believe his best baseball is still ahead of him. I think he'll just get bigger and stronger in college and he has a lot to offer both in the field and on the mound."

Watkins saw extensive action as the starting shortstop at Shelbyville Central. (T-G File Photo by Danny Parker) [Click to enlarge] [Order this photo]

Motlow coach Dan McShea agrees that his recent signee brings a lot to the Motlow baseball program.

"One of the the big things we like about Michael is his versatility. He can play several positions and can pitch as well. More importantly, he's a great kid, works hard and takes care of things in the classroom as well."

After his two years at Motlow, Watkins says, he hopes to sign with a Division I school.

Watkins was also a member of Shelbyville's golf team, advancing as far as the Region 4-AAA tournament his senior season.