SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes announced today that they have signed former Loyola Marymount midfielder Rafael Baca. Per league and team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The midfielder has been training with the Earthquakes since mid-February and has appeared in three games for the San Jose Reserves so far this season, getting the start in two of them.
Baca, a three-time First-Team All-West Coast Conference selection, completed his LMU career as the No. 2 leader in career games played (79), shots (213), and assists (19). His 57 points is No. 3 all-time at LMU, and his 19 goals are fourth-best in a career. He was also LMU’s captain for his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons, and was twice honored as the WCC Player of the Week.
Baca’s senior season was full of honors. He was selected to the Second Team of TopDrawerSoccer.com's National Team of the Season and was an NSCAA Third-Team All-American. Baca was also selected to the NSCAA First Team All-Far West Region. Baca’s eight assists led the West Coast Conference and tied him for second-most all-time at LMU. He also chipped in with three goals for a total of 14 points, fifth in the WCC.
During his junior season, Baca was named to the Goal.com All-America First Team, and was one of 30 players selected for the MAC Hermann Trophy Watch List, an award given to the best collegiate player of the year.
Prior to joining Loyola Marymount, Baca attended Amino Leadership High School in Inglewood, California. In his senior season, he was selected to the All-CIF, All-State, All-Harbor League, All-Area and All-City teams. He scored 58 goals during his high school career.
Transaction: San Jose Earthquakes (MLS) – Earthquakes sign M Rafael Baca.
Rafael Baca
Position: Midfielder
Jersey Number: 30
Height: 5-8
Weight: 160
Born: September 11, 1989
Hometown: Tuxpan, Michoacan, Mexico
College: Loyola Marymount University
