St. Michael-Albertville has claimed the Mississippi 8 Conference crown for three years running and could be on its way to a fourth with a victory or two at Buffalo on Tuesday. A sweep of the Bison could open up at least a two-game lead in the conference standings for the Knights, who enter the week looking for some separation from several teams with winning league records (Buffalo, Monticello, Chisago Lakes and Rogers).
The Knights (8-1, 5-0) have walloped opposing pitchers, averaging more than 11 runs per game, including an 11-1, six-inning win over defending Class 4A champion Eden Prairie on April 30.
Cody Kelly and Paxton Thompson have matching .531 batting averages. Thompson also leads all hitters with stats posted to MN Baseball Hub, with 15 RBI.
The Bison, however, may have the pitching to stall the Knights. Buffalo has allowed more than four runs just twice this season and Bailey Erickson could take the mound, toting three wins and 13 strikeouts in 18 innings already this year.
If the Bison (7-2, 4-1) can win two against the Knights and avenge their three losses to St. Michael-Albertville from a year ago, these teams could be battling for the conference crown until season's end.