Every year Monster Energy Supercross can expect to have at least one high-profile rookie making the progression from the 250SX Class to the premier 450SX Class. However, 2015 presents an entirely different scenario with arguably the most talented rookie class of recent memory that features four former main-event winners. Adding to this incredible talent and successful resume of this foursome is their position with factory teams.
With the start of the 2015 season in Anaheim around the corner, here's a look at the four rookies looking to not only make a name for themselves, but also hoping to shake up an already wide-open championship.
#4 - Blake Baggett
Team Yoshimura Suzuki
When Baggett initially signed with Yoshimura Suzuki, he assumed a promising role as teammate to James Stewart. After training with the former champion for the past year, it appeared to be an ideal fit that Baggett could thrive in. However, Stewart's recent suspension for a failed drug test is sure to change the energy surrounding the team. As a result Baggett will have to go at it alone -- at least at this point -- but his experience with Stewart should be beneficial to his adjustment.
While seeing the No. 4 on a Suzuki is a sight very familiar to supercross fans, it will take some adjustment in familiarizing with Baggett as the rider of that bike instead of Ricky Carmichael. Nevertheless, Baggett is capable of showing some flashes (keep an eye on him at Daytona) and has the speed to compile solid results despite the absence of his teammate and mentor. Hopefully there aren't too many ill effects on the team from Stewart's suspension to hinder Baggett's efforts.
#14 - Cole Seely
Team Honda
Seely has more premier-class experience than any of his fellow first-year competitors. The California native earned the first 450SX Class podium finish of his career last season while filling in for Trey Canard and now he'll line up alongside Canard as Team Honda's newest member. Seely respects his more experienced compatriots and the history of the sport, as evidenced by his asking Kevin Windham for permission to take the No. 14 as his career number, which means he'll be a sponge for knowledge as he acclimates full time to the division.
Throughout his time in the 250SX Class, Seely was consistently in contention for the podium so don't be surprised if he excels in the early rounds out west, where he's raced pretty much his entire life. Seely won't draw much attention, but he's plenty talented and he's proven on the big bike. Surely the full load of the 17-race schedule will have an impact, but Seely appears ready for the task that lies ahead.
#15 - Dean Wilson
Red Bull KTM
During a brief stint in the 450SX Class last season substituting for an injured Chad Reed, Wilson turned heads with his raw speed and ability to lay down some fast laps. For his rookie season, the Scot will have the opportunity of a lifetime with one of the most solid teams in the sport. He'll have the guidance of Roger DeCoster and will be able to learn from Ryan Dungey, a pairing with a long history of success that is easily spread. Due to the successful environment he's stepping into, the tools are there for Wilson to make some noise, probably more so than any of the other rookies this season.
It's clear that speed isn't a problem for Wilson, but he's admittedly struggled with arm pump and lasting the entirety of the 20-lap main events in the premier class. There's likely to be more growing pains for Wilson at times, but the solid foundation around him suggests that he could be the rookie to make the biggest impact this season. DeCoster doesn't stand for mediocrity and with to Wilson's roots at Pro Circuit Kawasaki, he's used to that mentality thanks to Mitch Payton. Wilson knows he has to perform and he's ready to prove he deserves the attention he's received.
#21 - Jason Anderson
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing
Everything is new with this effort for 2015, as both Anderson and the revamped Husqvarna brand will make their 450SX Class debuts this season. As the breakout rider of the 2014 season, Anderson brings championship credentials with him into the premier class and will be racing a bike modeled after the KTM that vaulted him to stardom a year ago. The last time Rockstar Energy Racing enjoyed a full season of supercross competition in the 450SX Class, Davi Millsaps gave them a pair of wins and a runner-up finish in the championship. And that was done without any factory support. Things are much more promising this time around.
While there are likely to be some growing pains all around as both team and rider find their groove, many consider Anderson to be the rookie to watch thanks to his impressive skillset on the technical confines of a supercross track. Additionally, he enhanced his training program off the bike by enlisting the services of Aldon Baker, whose track record is more than proven with the likes of Stewart, Carmichael, Ryan Villopoto, Ken Roczen and Adam Cianciarulo. Anderson could be more than capable of turning a good start into a front-running effort thanks to his prowess for sprinting, so it will be intriguing to see how this storyline develops for the New Mexico native and the anticipated return of one of the sport's storied brands.
