Nayellys Torres’ ability to control her pitches as well as her emotions impressed Dominican University’s coaches.

The Manteca High senior pitcher signed with the NCAA Division II school out of San Rafael last Friday afternoon.

A Central Valley product, Juliana Santos just completed her seventh year as Dominican head coach. The Penguins finished 19-24 and 12-16 in the Pacific West Conference.

“It’s been a really long journey since my junior year,” Torres said of the recruitment process. “I knew I always wanted to play college ball; it just came down to finding the right fit. When I met the coach, there was an instant connection.

“I like that it’s a small school. All of the coaches and teammates were welcoming when I visited them — I fit in right away. They showed me around and all the resources they have to offer. I really enjoyed the presentation, and I had a nice time.”

Torres plays for Batbusters Gomes U18 travel ball team. She’s enjoying another standout season with Manteca, holding an 11-5 record with a 2.04 ERA and 123 strikeouts in 89 1/3 innings.

Torres has been part of several team and personal milestones. She recently broke the program’s career strikeout record that currently stands at 472 and will have a chance to continue adding to that mark next week when the Buffaloes (15-6) start the Sac-Joaquin Section playoffs.

Torres, also a standout in the classroom, plans to study kinesiology with a possible career in physical therapy or athletic training.

“This is super exciting,” Torres said. “I worked so hard for this. To be able to play college ball is my dream. I have an opportunity to follow my dreams and do everything I want to do in the future, and it would not be possible without my parents, teachers, coaches and teammates. They all had a lot to do with this.”