High school 5A baseball: Tourney wide open

With a bunch of talented sophomores and juniors in their lineup, the Jordan Beetdiggers were supposed to be a state-title contender — in 2010 and 2011.

But for the Region 2 champion Beetdiggers the future is now, and a state championship is a realistic possibility. The 5A tournament begins today with eight first-round matchups, and Jordan opens with Fremont.

The Beetdiggers, who went 14-1 in Region 2 and had a 14-game winning streak going at one point, may seem like a surprise title contender because of its young lineup. No one affiliated with Jordan is shocked by the team's success, however, and mostly because of its strong finish in 2008.

"Not really (surprised), because they're the same group of kids who won their last (six) region games last year," said Jordan coach Ron Anderson. "They've continued to improve. We can swing it with anybody, but we'll have to pitch and play defense."

Juniors Kelton Caldwell, Reggie Jones, Cory Hunt and Parker Terry, and sophomore Clay Kinahan, have helped the Beetdiggers greatly exceed expectations this season, while seniors McKay Snow and Scott Lundquist have provided leadership. Jordan won 20 straight region games dating back to last season before losing to Alta last Wednesday.

Anderson said this group of players reminds him of the nucleus that helped the Beetdiggers reach the state championship game in 2005 and 2006, and that won it in 2007.

"Obviously, that's (a state championship) what we play for," Anderson said. "I know we won't be intimidated by anybody."

Each of the four region champions — Jordan, Viewmont, Riverton and Spanish Fork — had great seasons and looks capable of winning the state title. Spanish Fork has been ranked No. 1 every week except for one this season, and for good reason. With four college-level pitchers, the Dons are the team to beat in the state tournament.

"Spanish Fork has to be the front-runner with that pitching staff," Anderson said. "But I think there's another six or seven teams that can win it."

Dons coach Jim "Shoe" Nelson recently put the number of teams capable of winning it between 10 and 12. He doesn't believe any team should be considered the favorite because of the high number of quality teams in 5A this season.

But really, Spanish Fork has the best credentials coming into the tournament.