wvmnter ...
Know just how you feel ... we were just 30 miles (anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic on the eastbound 91) from UCR when our son went there. He was in Yakima his first pro summer ... a far cry from the "909" .. and now in South Bend ... takes a lot longer than driving on the 91.
But it is such a thrill to follow them and your son must be pretty special to be drafted that high out of high school. I know Coaches Smith and Checketts ... who more than likely would have made a great pitcher out of your son (check the history of former Highlander Jaymie Torres who started as an outfielder and now is a relief pitcher for the Cardinals' Midwest League team (Swing of the Quad Cities) ... will miss having him on their team for the ut next three years but no one can question his desire to start his pro career. God luck to him in the future, and enjoy the ride.