Preseason 2025: Leading High School Softball Teams from Every State

Orange Beach softball celebrates Natonal Title

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The Preseason Top 25 high school softball rankings are set to be unveiled on February 4. Before we delve into a detailed overview of the top teams across the nation, we’re highlighting the foremost team from each state as we approach the 2025 season.

Orange Beach concluded the 2024 season as the number one team in the country and stands out as the favorite from Alabama. The Makos are set to join Texas’ Melissa among those entering the season within the top 10 nationally.

Continue reading for insights on the premier team from your state.

Top 25 High School Softball Teams Across Each State

Alabama
Orange Beach
The Makos are bringing back a wealth of talent from a team that wrapped up the 2024 season with a remarkable 46-1 record, securing their fourth consecutive Class 4A state championship.

Alaska
Bettye Davis East Anchorage (Anchorage)
The Thunderbirds, who claimed their first state title in five years in 2024, will have their standout hitters Penina Tali and Aaliyah Villafuerte returning. Star pitcher and Alaska State Player of the Year Sela Rodriguez is also back.

Arizona
Desert Mountain (Scottsdale)
Rounding off 2024 with an impressive 18-game winning streak and a 5A state championship, Northwestern commit Lilly Goodwin will return to the circle along with power hitters Zoe Horning and Grand Canyon University commit McKinsey Beyer.

Arkansas
Hackett
The Hornets celebrated their first-ever state title last spring. Young pitcher Makenzie Freeman, who has committed to Tulsa, will return for her senior year. Her sister, Michaelyn—a formidable left-handed hitter at 6 feet—also returns.

California
Oak Ridge (El Dorado Hills)
The Trojans have secured consecutive Sac-Joaquin Section Division 1 titles, showcasing a powerhouse lineup with players committed to Washington, LSU, Nevada, Santa Clara, and two headed for North Carolina State.

Colorado
Lutheran (Parker)
Sophomore pitcher Annie Schroeder threw a complete-game shutout while senior Aleksia Severson drove in the sole run, leading the Lions to a narrow 1-0 victory over Windsor for their fourth straight 4A state championship this past fall.

Connecticut
Masuk (Monroe)
The Panthers capped an exceptional season with their sixth consecutive Class L state championship and a flawless 27-0 record in 2024. Providence commit Sofia Lieto and Florida Gulf Coast signee Julia Bacoulis are back to chase a seventh straight title.

Delaware
Caravel (Bear)
The Buccaneers claimed the state title for the third time in four years, defeating Sussex Central again. Although ace Kasey Xenidis has graduated, Caravel continues its strong tradition with returning talent like Maryland commit Zayda Rocke.

Florida
Montverde Academy (Montverde)
The reigning 3A state champions bring back most of their roster for the 2025 season. Florida State commit Danika Spinogatti and Georgia commit Luna Taboas lead the roster while Ole Miss pledge Nevaeh Williams is set to return to the circle for the Eagles.

Georgia
East Coweta (Sharpsburg)
Pitcher Jada Savage, who has committed to Ole Miss, played a pivotal role in winning four state tournament games, culminating in a Class 6A state title victory against Buford in the fall.

Hawaii
Mililani
The Warriors recorded a 17-1 finish in 2024, claiming their school’s first state title in a decade. Returning is sophomore pitcher Hinano Bauista, alongside junior Oklahoma commit Jerrell Mailo.

Idaho
Kimberly
The Bulldogs aim for a third consecutive state title in 2025 as they welcome back crucial members of their lineup. Senior Mallory Kelsey and junior Addi Clark combined for a 21-3 record last season while striking out 240 batters collectively.

Illinois
Carterville
After finishing 37-1 and ranked 13th nationally in 2024, they will welcome back top juniors Taryn Ford and Caidence Phillips, who together claimed a remarkable 34-1 record and racked up 494 strikeouts as sophomores.

Indiana
Hamilton Southeastern (Fishers)
Following a thrilling walk-off victory for the state title in 2024, the Royals are poised to continue their remarkable performance. State Player of the Year Grace Swedarsky is back for her junior season, sporting an impressive 18-2 record in the circle with 270 strikeouts.

Iowa
Pleasant Valley
The Spartans achieved a stunning 40-win season, crossing the 400-run mark while claiming a Class 5A title in 2024. They will return several key hitters this spring, including Iowa State commit Kasey Kane.

Kansas
Wamego
The Red Raiders are the frontrunners for a third consecutive title in 2025. Tennessee commit Peyton Hardenberger capped the previous season with back-to-back no-hitters, and sophomore Alana McCarthy returns following a stellar championship game performance, where she homered and drove in all five runs.

Kentucky
South Warren (Bowling Green)
The Spartans fell short in the state semifinals last spring against eventual champion Henderson County. While the Colonels will be determined to defend their title, watch for returning players like Western Kentucky commit Layla Ogden, who are driven to secure a state victory and avenge their past loss.

Louisiana
Calvary Baptist Academy (Shreveport)
It’s tough to dethrone a team that has secured four consecutive state titles, even with some graduations. Returning are Carlie Guile, Baylor Bockhaus, and Loren Sivils, who collectively smashed 42 home runs.

Maine
Cheverus (Portland)
Class of 2027 standout Addison DeRoche was instrumental in helping the Stags clinch their first state title in 2024. The talented right-handed pitcher reenters the lineup alongside slugger Hailey Lamontagne and others aiming for another championship.

Maryland
Rising Sun (North East)
The Tigers wrapped up a flawless season while securing their second consecutive state title in 2024. Class of 2025 pitchers Taylor Stapleford and Madison Ore shared the pitching duties last spring and will aim for additional perfection this year.

Massachusetts
Taunton
With promising young talent in Gracie Torres, catcher Aniyah Bailey, Gracie Oliveira, and Madison Crowley, the squad aims to extend their impressive run for a fifth consecutive state title.

Michigan
Gaylord
Aubrey Jones, an Oklahoma State commit, and Ferris State commit Kennedy Wangler are eager to conclude their high school careers with three consecutive championships. The Blue Devils wrapped up 2024 on a 13-game winning streak, finishing with a 3-2 victory against Vicksburg in the Division 2 final.

Minnesota
Randolph
The Rockets are coming off a successful Class AA state championship season in 2024. State Player of the Year and Minnesota commit Carter Raymond is returning after showcasing a 27-1 record in the circle with 310 strikeouts.

Mississippi
Northwest Rankin (Brandon)
The Cougars achieved a perfect 34-0 season, clinching the Class 7A state title in 2024. They will need to fill some key spots due to graduation, but expect contributions from notable players like Georgia commit Brooke Smith and Mississippi College signee Grace Wallis, as they aim for a three-peat.

Missouri
Concordia
First-team all-state pitcher Olivia Hemme will return for her senior season. She wrapped up her junior year with an impressive 12 strikeouts in the Class 1A state title game, guiding the Fighting Orioles to a 1-0 win.

Montana
Columbia Falls
The Wildcats seek to defend their title this year after winning back-to-back championships. Class of 2026 power hitter Bella Mann, Class of 2025 speedster Tayler Lingle, and sophomore standout Onnikka Lawrence will all return.

Nebraska
Gretna
The Dragons enjoyed a dream season this past fall, finishing unbeaten with astate title.

Nevada
Palo Verde (Las Vegas)
The Panthers were unable to clinch a title last year but possess the talent to make a significant playoff run in 2025. The entire pitching lineup is returning, complemented by a powerful batting order. Idaho State commit Mya Bartlett boasted an impressive batting average over .500, while junior Georgia commit Taylor Johns adds strength to the heart of the lineup.

New Hampshire
Londonderry
The Lancers celebrated their inaugural state championship last spring, led by Class of 2026 standout pitcher Elizabeth Kearney and a roster filled with emerging talent. With only two seniors departing, they are well-equipped for another title chase.

New Jersey
St. John-Vianney (Holmdel)
The Lancers, featuring six underclassmen, captured their second consecutive Non-Public A state title in 2024. State Player of the Year Madison McDougall is back after striking out 300 batters as a sophomore.

New Mexico
Centennial (Las Cruces)
The defending champions face some gaps to fill in key roles, but the Hawks, after finishing No. 44 nationally, have reached the title game for three straight seasons.

New York
Ichabod Crane (Valatie)
The Riders’ attempt for a third consecutive state title fell short in 2024, losing in the semifinals. Look for them to bounce back this season with notable returners including ace Kari Graziano, who boasted an impressive 18-1 record and 0.93 ERA last year.

North Carolina
Garner
After claiming the school’s first state title in 2024, the Trojans have the essential components for another deep playoff journey. Powerful left-handed pitcher Gabriella Czuczuk returns; she pitched 143 innings as a junior and is a Columbia University commit. Also returning is top hitter Gaby Mizelle, who has committed to Virginia Tech.

North Dakota
Minot
The Majettes had a mix of experiences last season but demonstrated the potential of a powerhouse. Halle Baker returns as one of the team’s leading hitters and pitchers, alongside all-state player Sydnee Bartsch, who had an impressive .496 average last spring.

Ohio
Austintown-Fitch (Youngstown)
The Falcons concluded last season ranked No. 6 in the Final Top 25 and aim to maintain a similar status as the 2025 season begins. One of the top players in the Class of 2025, Georgia Tech’s Sydnie Watts, is back and excels on both offense and defense. Additionally, Class of 2027 standout Kaliana Ray had a phenomenal freshman year, achieving over .700 in batting across 73 at-bats.

Oklahoma
Weatherford
Grand Canyon University commit Marley Teasley was instrumental in leading the Eagles to a 4A state title last fall. She recorded 23 home runs, drove in 44 runs, and excelled as a pitcher with a 21-1 record.

Oregon
West Salem (Salem)
The Lions ended last season with a 24-6 record and made it to the Class 6A quarterfinals. With all but three starters returning — including the entire pitching rotation — they are looking to advance further in the postseason this time around.

Pennsylvania
Neshannock (New Castle)
The Lancers have an extraordinary record, winning 73 of their last 74 games and going undefeated in 2024. Providence College commit Addy Frye racked up over 200 strikeouts while finishing with a remarkable 0.59 ERA. Kent State commit Jaidon Nogay also returns, having batted .492 as a sophomore.

Rhode Island
La Salle Academy (Providence)
The squad outscored their competition 234-46 to secure their second consecutive championship. The majority of that championship-winning team, including eight of the top nine hitters and both starting pitchers, will be back again this season.

South Carolina
Summerville
The Green Wave ended 2024 ranked No. 5 in the Top 25 with a perfect season. Key players such as seniors Abby Driscoll, committed to Charleston, Charlotte pledge Melanie Edwards, and South Carolina signee Ansley Bennett will aim for a third title in a row this year.

South Dakota
Harrisburg
After falling to Sioux Falls Lincoln in the Class AA title game last year, this team retains the talent needed to make a championship run. Players returning to the lineup include Central Missouri commit Madelyn Ducheneaux and Augustana pledge Jayci Olson.

Tennessee
Gordonsville
Following their second consecutive state title in 2024, the team will return most of its starters, including Tennessee commit Kailey Plumlee and Henderson State commit Abby Brinkley.

Texas
Melissa
The Tigers strung together 15 consecutive victories to secure the Class 5A state championship. Returning players include Texas signee Caigan Crabtree, Michigan State commit Alex Starr, Florida pledge Kennedy Bradley, and standout Class of 2027 player Hutton Adrian, among others, for the 2025 season.

Utah
Ridgeline (Millville)
The Riverhawks concluded the 2024 season ranked No. 11 in the Top 25 following their Class 4A state championship win. Brielle Gardiner had one of the most impressive freshman seasons nationwide, finishing with a record of 27-1 and a 0.78 ERA, while also contributing significantly at the plate. Along with her, Class of 2025 Texas commit Anne Wallace paced the team with a combined total of 19 home runs.

Vermont
Oxbow (Bradford)
The Olympians celebrated their 12th state championship last year, a state record, achieving an impressive fourth title in a row while remaining undefeated. Hopes are high for a possible five-peat this coming season.

Virginia
Bishop O’Connell (Arlington)
Coming off a successful spring with a top 50 finish after winning a VISAA Division I state championship and maintaining an undefeated record, the team is set to bring back their leading pitcher and one of their best hitters, George Mason commit Bri Lencz.

Washington
Skyview (Vancouver)
The Storm secured third place in the Class 4A state tournament last year and are determined to channel the disappointment from a tough semifinal loss into their efforts this coming season. Oregon commit Maddie Milhorn will be back, eager to clinch a championship.

West Virginia
Cabell Midland (Ona)
The Knights reached the semifinals last spring but are reloading with promising talent eager to progress further. Becca Conrad, Baylee Smith, and Nicole Harris, all returning players who batted over .400 last season, are set to lead the charge.

Wisconsin
Kenosha Bradford (Kenosha)
The Red Devils are the reigning Division 1 state champions. Returning is Wisconsin Player of the Year Aubrey Strelow, a Central Michigan commit, who will be pivotal as both the ace pitcher and one of the team’s top hitters.

Wyoming
Thunder Basin (Gillette)
The Bolts achieved their third consecutive state championship in 2024. After graduating four seniors, the foundation of young talent returning sets the stage for the current senior class to potentially conclude their high school careers as state champions.

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Athletic Highlights
Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais Joins 2026 Polynesian Bowl Roster
2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais
Englewood (Colo.) Cherry Creek defensive lineman Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais has received an invitation to participate in the 2026 Polynesian Bowl, as announced on Tuesday.
The standout player from Colorado expressed his excitement about this honor.
“Being selected to the Polynesian Bowl is a huge honor,” stated Umu-Cais. “It’s a recognition of all the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices I’ve made, and it means even more knowing how much pride and history are connected to the game. I have seen many players in the Poly Bowl and even players that are in the league now. It is truly special to be a part of something like that.”
Umu-Cais is eager to immerse himself in the experience in Hawaii.
“I’m extremely excited,” he said. “The Polynesian culture is so rich, full of pride, family, and tradition. I’m looking forward to learning more, meeting new people, and embracing everything the experience has to offer. I am extremely excited to immerse myself in the Poly community because it’s my culture. I can’t wait to really put on for my family as well as my community.”
This will mark his first visit to the Aloha State.
“I haven’t been to Hawaii yet, so this will be my first time,” Umu-Cais shared. “I’m really looking forward to it—the beauty, the culture, and the experience of a lifetime.”
Additionally, Umu-Cais is enthusiastic about the opportunity to compete alongside some of the nation’s top talents.
“I do not know the roster yet and what players are going to be attending, but I look forward to meeting them and also competing,” he noted.
The roster for the 2026 Polynesian Bowl includes early invitees such as Immanuel Iheanacho, Faizon Brandon, DJ Jacobs, Myson Johnson-Cook, Brandon Arrington, Chris Henry Jr., Kendre Harrison, Cederian Morgan, Honor Fa’alave-Johnson, Xavier Griffin, Kelsey Adams, Jamier Brown, George Toia, and Jett Washington.
The 2027 Polynesian Bowl will feature early invites including Elijah Haven, Trent Seaborn, and Marcus Fakatou.
Launched in 2017, the Polynesian Bowl saw its first Offensive MVP awarded to former Stanford all-purpose back Connor Wedington, while Buffalo Bills defensive lineman A.J. Epenesa earned the Defensive MVP. The following year, Kyler Gordon from the Chicago Bears and Tanner McKee from the Philadelphia Eagles were named Co-MVPs.
The 2019 contest awarded co-MVP honors to Daniel Heimuli, a linebacker from Arizona, and Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams. In 2020, Sol-Jay Maiava, the quarterback from BYU, and Meki Pei from Hawaii won co-MVP awards.
The 2021 edition saw Travis Hunter from Colorado take home the offensive MVP title, while Jaishawn Barham of Michigan earned defensive MVP honors. In 2023, Nico Iamaleava, a quarterback from Tennessee, was named offensive MVP, and linebacker Andrew Harris garnered defensive MVP accolades.
The 2024 game awarded offensive MVP to Mike Matthews from Tennessee and defensive MVP to David Stone of Oklahoma. Lastly, the 2025 contest featured co-MVPs on offense in Husan Longstreet from USC and Dakorien Moore from Oregon, while 2026 defensive lineman Deuce Geralds earned the defensive MVP honor.
The tenth Polynesian Bowl is scheduled for January 16, 2026, in Honolulu and will be broadcasted by NFL Network.
For more details on the 2026 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.
The eleventh Polynesian Bowl is slated for January 22, 2027, in Honolulu and will also be aired by NFL Network.
For insights on the 2027 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.
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Athletic Highlights
Creighton Secures Former MEAC Player of the Year Blake Harper
DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star Blake Harper
Blake Harper, a standout freshman basketball player from Howard University, confirmed his transfer to Creighton University on Sunday through social media.
Harper, who garnered both the MEAC Player and Rookie of the Year honors, shared his decision on Instagram @_bharp.
“you can’t say i ain’t earn it??” he wrote. “RDJ”
A Washington, D.C. native who previously played at Gonzaga College High School, Harper entered the transfer portal on March 24 and ultimately chose Creighton, turning down offers from LSU and Ohio State. Standing 6-foot-8, he also had the choice to return to Howard.
Harper is set to join a Creighton team coached by Greg McDermott, who led the Bluejays to an impressive 25-11 overall record, including a 15-5 performance in the Big East Conference during the 2024-25 season. The Bluejays secured an NCAA Tournament spot and concluded the season ranked 24th in the USA Today Coaches poll.
Throughout the 2024-25 season, Harper made an impact at Howard, starting in all 32 games and averaging 19.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, contributing to the Bison’s 12-20 record, which included a 7-7 performance in the MEAC.
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Athletic Highlights
Which Teams Are Leading Michigan High School Baseball This Week?
Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals
The Michigan high school baseball season has kicked off, and we’re here to deliver weekly rankings of the top teams across the state during the spring and summer months.
Check out this week’s standout teams in the Mitten region.
Michigan High School Baseball Rankings: Apr. 29
1. Bay City Western (12-1)
Bay City Western triumphed over Flint Powers Catholic 9-0 last Thursday but faced a setback with a 4-1 loss against Midland on Monday. The Warriors are gearing up for their next games against Lapeer on May 1 and Grand Blanc on May 5.
2. De La Salle (12-2)
The Pilots swept Auburn Hills Avondale on Saturday, winning both games 15-0, with game one ending after four innings and game two after three. De La Salle’s next challenge comes in the form of a doubleheader against Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice on April 30.
3. Northville (14-1)
The Mustangs notched wins against Hartland and two over Utica last week, followed by a victory against Howell on Monday. Northville is poised for a rematch against Howell on April 30.
4. Dakota (11-4)
After a heavy 10-0 loss to Rochester Adams last weekend, the Cougars bounced back with decisive wins against Sterling Heights Stevenson, claiming victories of 10-0 on Monday and 14-2 on Tuesday. Dakota is slated to face Stevenson two more times to wrap up their four-game series.
5. Birmingham Brother Rice (11-6)
The Warriors pulled off a sweep against Detroit Edison last week (2-0) and secured a 10-6 victory over Hartland on Friday. Up next, Brother Rice will face rival De La Salle for a doubleheader on April 30.
6. Grosse Pointe South (18-2)
With a win over Detroit Edison on Saturday, the Blue Devils set a new school record with their 15th consecutive victory. Although they stumbled against Anchor Bat on Monday, they have a chance for revenge on April 30 and May 1.
7. Saline (15-1)
The Hornets swept Chelsea in two games on Saturday and achieved a similar result against Ann Arbor Huron on Monday. With a five-game winning streak, Saline is stepping into the final match of their three-game series against Ann Arbor Huron on April 30.
8. Orchard Lake St. Mary’s (10-8)
OLSM traveled to Ohio over spring break, where they faced three games: an 8-7 defeat against Anthony Wayne, a 3-2 loss to Defiance on Saturday, and an 8-3 loss to Perrysburg later that day. The Eaglets are set to resume their Catholic League schedule on April 30 with a doubleheader against U of D Jesuit.
9. Romeo (16-2)
The Bulldogs are on an impressive seven-game winning streak, recently sweeping Stoney Creek on Saturday. They’ll look to maintain their momentum with a visit to Utica Ford next on May 1.
10. Sterling Heights Stevenson (12-2)
Stevenson is riding a three-game winning streak after defeating Anchor Bay twice on Saturday and mercying Dakota on Monday. The Titans will meet Dakota again on April 30 and May 1 before a brief pause, then face Utica Ford on May 5.
11. Hudsonville (12-2)
The Eagles wrapped up last week with a strong 5-1 record, including victories against Jenison and Rockford. Hudsonville is set to take on Rockford again on May 1 before hosting a doubleheader against Maple Valley the following day.
12. Jenison (8-2)
The Wildcats dominated Muskegon with a 15-0 win but narrowly lost to Hudsonville 9-8 last week. They split a doubleheader against Caledonia on Tuesday (W, 10-0; L, 3-2), with a rubber match scheduled for May 1.
13. New Boston Huron (16-0)
The Chiefs kept their unbeaten record intact last week with wins over Allen Park and Milan. They are set to play Flat Rock next on April 30 and have a matchup with Dearborn Divine Child on May 2.
14. Detroit Catholic Central (10-6)
The Shamrocks are currently on a four-game winning streak, most recently sweeping Portage Central on Tuesday. Up next, Detroit Catholic Central will face St. Francis de Sales in a doubleheader on April 30.
15. West Bloomfield (8-3)
The Lakers split a doubleheader with Rochester last week and followed that up with back-to-back wins against Groves, including an 8-1 victory on Tuesday. West Bloomfield will meet Groves once more on May 1 before taking on Stoney Creek on May 3.
16. Dexter (13-6)
The Dreadnaughts have struggled recently, dropping four of their last six games, including both matches in a doubleheader against Ann Arbor Skyline on Monday. They have another opportunity against Skyline on April 30 before heading to Adrian on May 3.
17. Woodhaven (15-5)
The Warriors have secured consecutive victories after experiencing two losses in a row, with their latest triumph coming against Dearborn Edsel Ford, winning 2-1 in a dramatic nine-inning game on Monday. Woodhaven’s upcoming opponents include Wyandotte on April 30, followed by Taylor on May 1.
18. Rochester Adams (15-4)
Rochester Adams holds a 2-2 record over its last four games, having recently suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Stoney Creek on Tuesday. The Highlanders have another chance to face Stoney Creek on May 2 before taking on Grosse Pointe North in a doubleheader on May 3.
19. Trenton (13-3)
The Trojans went 2-1 at the 9th Bob Kreszyn Classic on Saturday, achieving victories over Wayland and Flint Powers Catholic, with their only setback against Utica Ford. Additionally, Trenton triumphed over Taylor on Monday, and their next matchup is against Dearborn Edsel Ford on April 30.
20. Midland (6-2)
Midland upset the top-ranked team in the state, securing a 4-1 victory over Bay City Western on Monday. Despite a number of canceled games this season, the Chemics’ schedule is about to heat up, starting with a game against Davison on April 30.
21. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep (9-5)
Pontiac Notre Dame Prep faced a tough doubleheader against Flushing on Saturday, resulting in two losses, but bounced back on Monday with a solid 9-2 win over U of D Jesuit.
22. Detroit Western (13-5)
After a 12-7 win against Grosse Pointe North on Saturday, the Cowboys suffered an 8-3 loss to Grosse Pointe South later that day. However, they regained their momentum with a 5-2 victory over Cass Tech on Tuesday. Detroit Western is set to face Livonia Stevenson next on April 30.
23. Grand Ledge (13-5)
The Comets faced a tough defeat in a doubleheader against Okemos on Monday, breaking a four-game winning streak. Grand Ledge will aim to bounce back during a doubleheader against Lansing Everett on May 1.
24. Mattawan (8-2-3)
Mattawan has triumphed in four of its last five outings, although they faced a setback against Grandville, losing 4-3 on Saturday. The Wildcats will take on Gull Lake next in a doubleheader on April 30.
25. Allen Park (8-5)
The Jaguars managed to avoid a third consecutive loss by overpowering Lincoln Park with a decisive 15-0 win on Monday. Allen Park will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Taylor for a doubleheader on April 30.
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