He went to East Carolina University to play baseball after his high school coach recommended him to the baseball coach there. At East Carolina, Watkins was an All-American and was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the 1st round (32nd pick) of the 1993 Major League Baseball Draft.
He decided to attend East Carolina University to play baseball after his high school coach suggested him for the opportunity. At East Carolina, Watkins became an All-American and was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the first round of the 1993 MLB draft.