Baseball
Watertown's Rising Stars Shine Bright on the College Baseball Stage
2024-11-02
Watertown High School seniors and Watertown Post 17 American Legion Baseball standouts are making waves in the college baseball scene. A remarkable five players have announced their plans to continue their athletic careers at the next level, showcasing the exceptional talent and dedication of this small-town team.
Unlocking the Potential of Watertown's Rising Stars
Hayden Ries Commits to Mount Marty University
Infielder-pitcher Hayden Ries has announced his commitment to play baseball at Mount Marty University in Yankton. Ries, a standout for Watertown Post 17, joins his teammate Treyton Himmerich, who committed to the same university earlier this week. With Ries' announcement, the Watertown Post 17 program has now seen five of its players secure college baseball commitments, a testament to the team's exceptional talent and coaching.Ries' impressive performance on the field has earned him a spot at the next level. During the past summer, he batted an impressive .310, with six doubles, 57 runs scored, 34 runs batted in, and 19 stolen bases. On the mound, Ries showcased his versatility, going 4-3 with a 5.30 earned-run average. His well-rounded skills and dedication to the game have undoubtedly caught the eye of the Mount Marty University coaching staff.Treyton Himmerich Joins Ries at Mount Marty University
Treyton Himmerich, Ries' Post 17 teammate, has also announced his commitment to play baseball at Mount Marty University. Himmerich, a second baseman, has proven to be a valuable asset to the Watertown squad, and his decision to continue his athletic career at the collegiate level is a testament to his hard work and potential.The duo's commitment to Mount Marty University not only strengthens the Lancers' baseball program but also highlights the depth of talent within the Watertown Post 17 team. As they prepare to take the field for their final season with the Legion squad, Ries and Himmerich will undoubtedly be key contributors, leading their team to new heights and showcasing their skills to a wider audience.Watertown Post 17's Impressive College Commitments
Ries and Himmerich are not the only Watertown Post 17 players to have announced their college baseball commitments. In fact, they are part of a remarkable group of five players who have secured their spots at the next level.Pitcher-catcher Kaden Rylance has committed to NCAA Division I South Dakota State, while pitcher Talan Jurgens will be joining the NAIA program at Dakota State University. Shortstop-relief pitcher Nathan Briggs has committed to NCAA Division II Wayne (Neb.) State.This impressive list of college commitments not only highlights the individual talents of these players but also speaks to the overall strength and depth of the Watertown Post 17 program. The team's success this past summer, with a 46-25 record and a third-place finish in the state Class A tournament, has undoubtedly played a role in attracting the attention of college coaches.As these Watertown standouts prepare to take the next step in their athletic careers, their achievements serve as an inspiration to the younger players in the community. The Watertown Post 17 program has proven to be a breeding ground for exceptional talent, and the continued success of its alumni at the collegiate level will only further cement its reputation as a premier destination for aspiring baseball players.