The Eagles were ranked third in Class 5A going into the postseason. And Eldorado always seems to have the magic this time of year, so I think you have to consider those two the favorites. Combined, Carlsbad and Eldorado have won 10 of the state's past 13 large-school championships. Farmington, which is now competing in Class 4A, won the other three. We believe we can play with any team, but we have to go out there and do it.
Nothing ever comes easy at the state tournament.
La Cueva will have to beat a Carlsbad squad that hasn't lost in more than a month. The Cavemen feature one of the state's most effective pitchers in Raymond Pelton and a solid, experienced lineup. The Bears, meanwhile, start one of the state's youngest lineups, with three freshman and two sophomores. The Bears have gone 13-1 since McKeever went to the youthful lineup, however. Del Norte, which is led by standout pitchers J.D. Johnson and Kevin Gurule, must find a way to slow down a hot-hitting Eldorado squad.