Elk River at Maple Grove
4:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 12

Maple Grove has to adjust to life without pitcher Sydney Smith, the two-time Star Tribune Metro Player of the Year, who moved on to Louisiana State University.

The Smith-led Crimson went 24-3 last season and finished third at the Class 3A state tournament. All three of Maple Grove’s losses came to eventual state champion Eastview.

The Crimson, who were the Class 3A runner-up in 2006, 2012 and 2014, are seeking their fifth consecutive state tournament trip with a roster that includes just two seniors.

Juniors Erin Roehl and Eleanor Schutte, who each hit .300 prior to the state tournament last year, could be key in helping Maple Grove defend it's Northwest Suburban Conference title.

All-state second team pitcher Olivia Wolters is back from an Elk River team that finished third in the league standings behind Maple Grove and Anoka. The Elks, who were a game shy of the Class 3A, Section 7 championship as a No. 6 seed last year, return all-state honorable mention second baseman Marie Deaton, as well.

Elk River claimed Class 3A titles in 2009 and 2013, but has not been back to the state tournament since.