Battle-tested Pueblo County is looking for its first baseball state title

PUEBLO, Colo. (KKTV) - Pueblo County baseball has been here before. Making it to the state tournament the last three seasons, and even losing to in the state finals two years ago, but this year’s Hornets are different.

“We got tested with adversity in the regionals all three years, both years since then. We really did lean on that experience this last weekend and getting through 3 tough ball games to get us in this spot,” said head coach Matt Eades.

Led by their 13 seniors, the county is close, and this year, they have overcome some tough losses.

“Losing five of six going through the last couple years like we have. We haven’t really faced that, and really good leadership, really good staying together, and they didn’t blink. They weren’t fazed by that little bump in the road, and they knew what they want to do towards the end,” Eades said.

“I feel like we were getting by and we finally hit a little roadblock, lost a couple games, and I don’t know, we finally got tested and I feel like that really helped us become the team we are right now,” said senior Sol Montoya.

“Nine guys get to play, and we are running out juniors and two sophomores. 6 of those seniors are starting, and the guys that are not starting are just as good leaders as those off the bench. The energy is great in the dugout,” Eades said.

“I feel like it just shows the brotherhood on this team and how we stuck together through everything. I mean, since we were freshmen, we always said we were going to do big things together, and I feel like we are showing that now, and it’s been really fun to be a part of,” said Montoya.

County is now in the driver’s seat, waiting for its opponent in the 4A state championship on Saturday. Just one win away from the program’s first state title.

“I mean everything, first state title in school history. Hopefully one more gets it done, said senior Nick Hernandez.

“Everything. I mean, bringing one home for the school, we never got one before. I mean that would be awesome to be a part of the team and just be part of that legacy that will live forever,” said Montoya.