Cretin-Derham Hall at Mounds View
4:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 15

The state’s traditional power program takes on the newest dynasty Wednesday night in Mounds View.

No. 6-3A Cretin-Derham Hall carved its niche as the premier high school baseball program in the state, advancing to 19 state tournaments between 1980 and 2007. But the Raiders are in an extended dry spell, with that 2007 state championship remaining as the last time they’ve played in the tourney. The Raiders would like nothing more than to add to that legacy, which includes a record 11 state championships.

Cretin-Derham Hall features three college commits (Cole Gnetz to Miami-Ohio, Bret Huebner to Furman and Robbie Rice to St. Thomas) along with arguably the top junior prospect in the state, shortstop Jordan Ammons.

Meanwhile, No. 3-3A Mounds View is on a great run, having won the last two Class 3A state titles behind ace Sam Hentges. He’s graduated now, so many observers expect the Mustangs to drop back a step.

But there’s plenty still in the stable for coach Mark Downey. He’ll look to a pair of experienced lefties to lead the revamped rotation: Charlie Callahan and Henry DeCaster. They combined to win four games with 45 strikeouts in 48 innings last spring.