CAMP VERDE — It’s been six years since the Camp Verde baseball program has sniffed a state playoff berth, but in skipper Will Davis’ final season, he’s hoping the Cowboys have one more run in them before riding off into the sunset.

In 2019, Camp Verde made their way to baseball’s version of the Final Four, defeating Miami (10-4) and upsetting Thatcher (7-4) to earn a spot in the 2A state semifinals.

Their magical run came to an end with a 9-0 loss to then No. 1-ranked Scottsdale Christian, which beat Morenci in the finals, 3-2.

Since that moment, however, it’s been tough sledding for the Cowboys program, especially after starting 5-1 in 2020 but saw a promising season wiped away due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Between 2021-2024, Camp Verde went 36-57 while playing a tough 3A conference schedule, but now that the boys in red, white and blue have returned to 2A this spring, they are 3-8, including two wins this week and a 3-1 mark in power point play.

Davis has taught in the district since 2003, and took the reins of the Cowboys’ program in 2012. He said it’s been a “fun ride” during his 14-year tenure, and this season, he still believes.

“We’ve played well, just haven’t gotten enough breaks,” Davis said.

Camp Verde pitcher Deegan Rodriquez warms up in the bullpen prior to the Cowboys’ home game against Madison Highland Prep. on Monday, March 24, 2025, in Camp Verde. (Brian M. Bergner Jr./AzPreps365)

In a 6-2 win over Madison Highland Prep. on March 24, Deegan Rodriquez pitched a complete game, going seven innings while allowing only two runs on six hits and struck out 11.

He also had a double and scored two runs.

“Deegan pitched great today, changing speeds and keeping them off balance,” Davis said. “He’s one of our senior leaders … Deegan is a great kid, loves the game, pitches and catches, and is a hard worker who really leads in that aspect.”

Rodriquez believes if the club makes a few less errors and continues to work together, they can go far this season.

“I think as long as the team keeps improving and making the plays we need, [we can be successful],” Rodriquez said.

Another standout senior is Gunner Selting, who was 2 for 4 with a run scored and a stolen base. Davis said his “super stud” will likely play in college next year if he chooses to.

“He’s our main leader vocally, and with his play and work ethic,” Davis said.

Selting said a goal of his would be for the Cowboys (3-8, 2-1 2A Central) to have a winning record in region, and to potentially steal 30 bags.

“To start off we need to be more focused and driven in the later innings,” Selting said when asked what Camp Verde needs to do to be successful in 2025.

Other players Davis pointed to who are having a good spring so far include Wyatt Mulcaire, Chris Quevedo and Gage Wolf. Mulcaire, a junior, is hitting .471 with seven RBI in 2025, while Quevedo, a sophomore, has scored six runs and has tallied seven hits so far.

“Wyatt has been a huge surprise. That kid can really swing it,” Davis said, adding that Wolf has been “exceptional” in the field this year at shortstop.

With 11 regular season games to, Davis said he’ll miss “the excitement” at the beginning of every year.

Rodriquez tipped his cap to his coach.

“I would say that throughout my four years, coach has never given up on us and he always pushes us for the next goal, even if we are having a rough year,” Rodriquez said.

UP NEXT

Camp Verde heads to Glendale Prep. on Monday, March 31. First pitch is set for 3:45 p.m. Davis’ final home game will be the season finale against Scottsdale Christian on April 28.

Brian M. Bergner Jr. has covered professional, collegiate and high school sports for more than 20 years. Follow him on X at @AzPreps365Brian or on Facebook at @Five2MediaWorks. Have a story idea? Email Brian at bbergner@azpreps365.com.