Entering this week, Luverne boasts a state-best 6-0 record, largely due a stellar start from its pitching staff.
Eight different pitchers have helped the Cardinals (6-0, 4-0) hold opponents to just seven runs on 18 hits while striking out 31 hitters, including Derek Lundgren and Tyler Riesdorfer, who nearly recorded a five-inning no-hitter against Windom on April 23.
Jackson County Central comes in looking for revenge after a stinging loss to Luverne last season.
The Huskies (2-2, 2-0) won the small school division of the Big South Conference with a 10-2 record. Their only losses were to the Cardinals, who also hung an 11-1 loss on Jackson County Central in the Class 2A, Section 3 semifinals.
The Huskies defeated St. James 7-3 and 7-2 in a doubleheader last Thursday and hope to use that momentum to turn the tables on their rivals on Thursday.
-- Second game to follow.