Pierz at Maple Lake
4 p.m., Thursday, May 4

Pierz has not faced many tough challenges since the season opener, a 2-1 win over Foley, and the Pioneers (8-0, 5-0) have averaged a winning margin of 6.14 runs since. On the other side of the ball, the pitching staff has been excellent, with Matt Tautges and Preston Rocheleau leading a staff that's held opponents scoreless five times.

Meanwhile, Maple Lake's offense is kicking into gear. The Irish (9-1, 6-0) have notched at least 10 hits in each of their last four games, including getting four hits from Dawson McAlpine against Holdingford on April 28.

The teams split last season's doubleheader prior to meeting in the state tournament.