Sartell-St. Stephen has won 13 consecutive games while outscoring opponents 167-29.
It seems incongruous, but the Sabres enter the final weeks of the regular season with something to prove. After coming out on top of the first Class 3A rankings poll of the year two weeks ago, Sartell-St. Stephen (13-0, 9-0) fell to sixth last week — despite its winning four games.
Tuesday's doubleheader against Class 4A Brainerd will affect the outcome of the Central Lakes Conference championship race and will be a good test for the Sabres.
Senior Kami Dougherty and a power-hitting lineup give Sartell-St. Stephen its strength. Rainna Stangle has a grand slam and, while full statistics are not available to the MN Softball Hub, at least three home runs. Seniors Emilie Hough, a St. Benedict's commit, and Wisconsin Stout recruit Ava Williams contribute to the Sabres' power lineup.
Brainerd (10-2, 8-0) has an effective duo in junior sisters Emma and Olivia Tautges. Emma is the Warriors' top pitcher, and Olivia plays first base and backs up Emma in the circle. Both are strong hitters. Younger sister Mya, a freshman, also pitches.
The Warriors' only losses have come against No. 2-4A Centennial (8-5 on April 23) and No. 4-4A Elk River (9-0 on May 7). They have outscored opponents 102-26.