Shortstop Jackson Commits to California

Conor Jackson, an All-City shortstop from El Camino Real High who’s considered one of the region’s top college baseball prospects, said Monday he has committed to California.

It was a major recruiting victory for first-year Coach David Esquer, a former Pepperdine assistant who was able to lure Jackson to Berkeley despite strong bids by Miami and Pepperdine.

“I just feel it’s a place I can excel in athletically and academically,” Jackson said.

Jackson, who used to play football at El Camino Real, joked about catching passes from former Hart quarterback Kyle Boller, a freshman for the Golden Bears.

“We’ll have to start hanging out,” he said.

He’s the second El Camino Real baseball player to make a commitment. Infielder John Voita will attend Cal State Northridge. Conquistador outfielder Sean McElroy also is being recruited by Northridge.

Last week, Crespi outfielder Brian Horwitz committed to Cal.