Pitcher Dimitri Casas
Photo by Paul DiSalvo
Johnson points to two teams that could stand in the way of a Cherry Creek repeat: Regis Jesuit won the 2011 state championship, while Legend handed Cherry Creek a loss in the 5A state tournament last year. Cherry Creek will play Regis Jesuit and Legend at least once each during the regular season this year.
Local outlook: In the Centennial League, Cherry Creek suffered one loss to Grandview. Johnson said that Grandview will once again be a team Cherry Creek will have to contend with for the league title.
Overall outlook: The Bruins have a deep pitching staff, which bodes well for state tournament play, as teams can sustain a loss and work their way back through the losers bracket. That was the case for Cherry Creek last year when it lost to Legend but then came back to defeat Legend for the state championship. Cherry Creek does not have any tournaments on its schedule, but it plays nearly every top team in Colorado this season.
Coach quote: "Staying healthy and staying on task will help us contend for a league, district and state title. This team has a great work ethic and is committed to be the very best it can be."
- Marc Johnson
