Beckman infielder Connor McGuire looks forward to playing for UCI

Beckman’s Connor McGuire took part in Sunday’s opening at Great Park.

Beckman infielder Connor McGuire is headed to UC Irvine in a couple years to play baseball, he said Sunday.

McGuire still has a year with the Patriots, then he will move on to play for Coach Ben Orloff’s team at UCI.

“I felt like it was the best move for me,” McGuire said. “I’m super excited to go there next year. Obviously, we have some unfinished business to take care of in the spring.

“Once that gets over with, I couldn’t be more excited to play at Irvine next year.”

McGuire said he also considered offers from UCLA and Grand Canyon College.

“I felt UCI was the best fit for me, Coach Orloff taking over there and being a kid from Irvine and playing with Irvine Pony and living in Irvine and playing for Beckman and to be able to play my college career in Irvine is super special and I’m looking forward to it,” he said.

“It’s going to be great to have my parents come out and watch me play. I can’t wait.”

McGuire said he is hoping to play shortstop this year for the Patriots but the decision will be up to Coach Kevin Lavalle.