"They're just solid all-around baseball players," Nelson said. "I think the way Dev brought them up is that they keep their mouths shut, but play the game and play the game the right way."

The Duke brothers have found success with two different personalities. Even though Brock, because of his success at a young age, has always carried that can't-miss label and the pressure that goes with it, he's handled the high expectations by always displaying a little mental edge over his opponents. Nelson says when Brock pitches he evaluates the opposing team's hitters early in the game and then adjusts his game plan accordingly.

"I've been around the game for 30 years, and he'll say some things that I haven't even thought of. That's how on the ball of a baseball player that he is," Nelson said.

Even Adam has noticed his older brother's advanced understanding of the game and the respect he's earned because of it.

"He's always one step ahead of everyone because he's so smart," Adam said ...

Many feel the younger Duke has the better baseball tools and the potential to go farther as a pitcher. Even Brock is amazed at Adam's competitive drive.

"He's gritty. He just gets in there and gets it done, and that's what it comes down to," Brock said.

Currently the highlight of the Dukes' careers has been the national youth titles they won with the Mariners super-league teams more than seven years ago. That can be topped, however, if they can finish off this season and Brock's prep career by sharing a state high school baseball title.

"We have the team, we have the talent, we just have to get it done," Brock said.

Nelson feels both have the potential to be drafted and play professionally if they continue to improve and develop in college. The Dukes admit that is their hope. But when their careers at Spanish Fork are over, they're also hoping to leave a legacy of inspiration with the Dons program like their father left with them.

"I just hope kids will keep playing the game because they love it, and because it's fun," Brock said.

"Any time a kid puts on a baseball uniform, they should play as hard as they can and have pride in everything they do," Adam added.

E-MAIL: jimr@desnews.com