GRADUATING UST Golden Sox catcher John Vargas capped his three-year UAAP stint with the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in the Season 87 baseball tournament.
The veteran national team catcher also claimed the Most Home Runs award after hitting two in the elimination round.
Vargas said the Golden Sox, who finished the elimination round at 6-5, faced a tough road in Season 87 but expressed gratitude that the campaign still ended well.
“The journey to this MVP award wasn’t a straight path paved with victories,” Vargas told the Varsitarian. “My goal became less about personal glory and more about contributing to the team’s success, about supporting my teammates and helping my coaches achieve their vision.”
He also credited his teammates and coaches for helping him grow as a student-athlete.
“They saw beyond the wins and losses, recognizing the dedication and commitment I brought to every practice and every game,” Vargas said.
Meanwhile, Cedrick Marquez clinched the Rookie of the Year award.
In UST’s semifinal loss to the DLSU Green Batters, Marquez blasted a game-tying homer that pushed the match to extra innings.
In the past seasons, UST has produced baseball standouts, such as Mark Beronilla (Season 80 top rookie) and Justine Rosales (Season 85 MVP).
Vargas expressed gratitude to UST’s baseball program, saying he would carry the skills and lessons with him as he turns his focus to national team duties.
“(My UST career) instilled in me the mental and emotional toughness necessary to succeed,” he said. “Now, I am preparing for the upcoming tournaments with the national team, and I am actively pursuing opportunities to play professionally overseas.” Clyde Leanne M. Salamatin
