Diego Valdez, Santa Monica High’s hard-hitting 6-foot-3 first baseman, has decided to play baseball for El Camino College next season.
Valdez was strongly considering El Camino when West Los Angeles College restored its baseball program in July. West LA recruited Valdez, who delayed his decision until last week.
“I met with Diego and his parents and I respect his decision,” said West LA Coach Bob Grant. “They’re fine people and I will never criticize a young man for choosing another school. I wished him well.” Among the 20 players who have committed to West LA are Johnny Huerta, Samohi’s second baseman, and Mike Walsh, a Viking pitcher in 2005 who was at Pierce College last season.
