Mikey Watson Shines Bright in Double Duty Classic

High School Standout

Homewood-Flossmoor shortstop Mikey Watson seized his moment at Rate Field, home of the Chicago White Sox. Playing in a prestigious event, his drive for magic was evident. Watson, an Illinois-Chicago recruit and rising senior, attributed his enthusiasm to being a spark plug for his team. He said, “Getting the dugout fired up and the momentum in our favor was really huge.”

Homewood-Flossmoor’s Mikey Watson connects on a triple for the East All-Stars against the West during the Double Duty Classic at Rate Field in Chicago on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)

Impressive Performance

On Wednesday, Watson led the East All-Stars to a 9-2 victory over the West All-Stars in the Double Duty Classic with a leadoff triple and scoring the first run. Watson, along with Marian Catholic’s Jazarris Mackmore, earned the Minnie Minoso Award as co-MVPs. Mackmore contributed three hits, including a pivotal two-run double.

Mackmore reflected on his connection with Watson, “We’ve been playing together for at least four years now and have known each other since kindergarten.” His comments highlighted Watson’s abilities both offensively and defensively.

Homewood-Flossmoor’s Mikey Watson rounds second base on a triple for the East All-Stars against the West during the Double Duty Classic at Rate Field in Chicago on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)

Team Contributions

Watson’s impact was felt beyond his own performance. West Aurora’s Oscar Alexander Jr. drove Watson home with a double in the first inning. Alexander praised Watson for his energy and skill in the infield. Watson ended the night with three hits out of four attempts, two runs, and two stolen bases.

His performance set the tone for the East’s dominance. “It brought nerves, but we had a chance to hit and field before the game,” Watson noted.

Homewood-Flossmoor’s Mikey Watson celebrates an inning-ending double play for the East All-Stars during the Double Duty Classic at Rate Field in Chicago on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)

Defensive Expertise

Watson’s defensive skills shone as he initiated three double plays, demonstrating his anticipation and control. His versatility was evident. Watson stated, “I take pride in my defense. I want people to realize I’m also a defender.”

After transferring from Brother Rice, Watson helped Homewood-Flossmoor achieve a winning record in the spring. The transition allowed him to emerge as a leader and influenced the team’s success.

With a focus on pressure and leadership, Watson aims to create spectacular plays. His passion for baseball began early at age four, playing T-ball in South Holland.

Homewood-Flossmoor’s Mikey Watson reacts after hitting a triple for the East All-Stars against the West during the Double Duty Classic at Rate Field in Chicago on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)

Family Atmosphere

The energy at Rate Field intensified Watson’s experience, as he shared the field with familiar faces. For him, this camaraderie contributed to a memorable event.

“They’re like my family, and I love playing with them. Wednesday night was like a dream come true,” Watson expressed.

Patrick Z. McGavin reports for the Daily Southtown.