AIA 5A Championship Recap: Casteel vs. Sunrise Mt.
May 15, 2024
Casteel Colts 8 vs. Sunrise Mt. Mustangs 1
In a highly anticipated 5A State title game, the Casteel Colts showcased their dominance with an 8-1 victory over the Sunrise Mountain Mustangs, marking their second consecutive state championship. The win was anchored by a stellar performance from ace left-handed pitcher and University of Arizona commit Mason Russell, who threw a complete game, allowing just one earned run while striking out five.
1B/OF Landon Hairston
— Prep Baseball Arizona (@PrepBaseballAZ) May 15, 2024
2024, @CHSColtBaseball
Hairston with a loud swing to leadoff the 4th inning as he crushes a double into RCF.
8th-ranked senior in Arizona and @ASU_Baseball commit.@hairston_landon | @ShooterHunt pic.twitter.com/LTnor2XwKq
From the outset, the Colts showed their offensive dominance, with all nine starters recording hits. The early offensive surge was led by Bobby Pierce, who went 2-4 and delivered a crucial RBI in the 2nd inning, giving Casteel a 4-1 lead that set the tone for the game. Freshman standout Baylor Denny contributed significantly with two hits and an RBI, showcasing his potential and poise in a high-stakes environment especially in his first high school season. Additionally, Arizona State commit Connor Russell had a notable day at the plate, going 2-3 with two RBIs, further cementing the Colts' offensive dominance at the plate.
OF Connor Russell
— Prep Baseball Arizona (@PrepBaseballAZ) May 15, 2024
2026, @CHSColtBaseball
The ASU commit sends a shot into RCF for a single that scores two and extends the Colts lead to 7-1.@ASU_Baseball commit.@connor22starss | @ShooterHunt pic.twitter.com/Tc3ulrw5Px
The Mustangs struggled to find their footing against Mason Russell's precision and control on the mound. Despite their efforts, they could only muster a single run, underscoring the effectiveness of Russell's pitching and the solid defense behind him.
INF Baylor Denny
— Prep Baseball Arizona (@PrepBaseballAZ) May 15, 2024
2027, @CHSColtBaseball @PBR_Uncommitted
Line-drive single from Denny through the 3-4 hole for his second knock of the game.
Runners on 1st and 2nd with two outs in the bottom of the 6th, still 8-1 Casteel.@Bdenny1x | @ShooterHunt pic.twitter.com/DrLIVcJ9OJ
Casteel entered the season as the top-ranked team in the state by Prep Baseball Report, and their performance throughout the season and in the championship game justified that ranking. Under the leadership of Coach Matt Denny, one of Arizona's premier coaches, the Colts have continued to build a legacy of success. Coach Denny's expertise and strategic acumen were evident throughout the season, culminating in this championship victory.
🚨BALL GAME🚨@CasteelBaseball is your Back-2-Back 5A Champions‼️
— Prep Baseball Arizona (@PrepBaseballAZ) May 15, 2024
FINAL: 8-1 pic.twitter.com/CGOdEUkL0h
Coach Denny's success with the Colts has not gone unnoticed, as he will lead Team Arizona in the prestigious Geico High School National Championships this summer. His ability to develop talent and achieve consistent success will undoubtedly make him a valuable asset in the national spotlight.
As the Colts celebrate their back-to-back state titles, the future looks bright for this powerhouse program. With a blend of experienced leaders and emerging talents, Casteel has established itself as a formidable force in Arizona high school baseball. This championship victory not only adds to their storied legacy but also sets the stage for continued success in the seasons to come.
UPCOMING EVENTS
SHOWCASE | STATE | DATE | LOCATION |
Mesa Summer ID | AZ | 05/29 | Desert Ridge High School - Mesa, AZ |
2024 ProCase - West | AZ | 06/02 | Pepperdine University |
Top Prospect Games: Upperclass (Invite-Only) | AZ | 06/03 | Grand Canyon University - Phoenix, AZ |
Top Prospect Games: Underclass (Invite-Only) | AZ | 06/10 | American Family Fields of Phoenix |
West Side Summer ID | AZ | 06/18 | Canyon View High School - Waddell, AZ |
Glendale Summer ID | AZ | 07/16 | Apollo High School - Glendale, AZ |
Future Games (Class of 2026/27) | NATIONAL | 07/24 | LakePoint Sports |
Junior Future Games (Class of 2028/29) | NATIONAL | 07/24 | LakePoint Sports |
Senior Future Games (Class of 2025) | NATIONAL | 07/24 | LakePoint Sports |
RECENT NEWS