ORO VALLEY — A late-season hot streak got Queen Creek's softball team into the playoffs. But no amount of momentum could help the Bulldogs against defending-champion Canyon del Oro.

4A Division I State Softball Tournament

Will April’s scrambles leave May softball in shambles?

4A Division I State Softball Tournament

Three years ago, a bunt, overthrow, or bobbled grounder led to a 1-0 win or loss.

The big-names are gone, graduated or otherwise, so perhaps those who use the aluminum are licking their chops.

4A Division I softball state tournament outlook

Anyway you dice them, the softball stats are surprising.

For years, the legends of Class 4A baseball coaches, Jerry Dawson (Chaparral) and Harold Bull (McClintock), writhed and wailed about the single-elimination state tournament format.

Three feet has made a difference.

This one slipped through quietly. Or, at least, quieter than expected.

Who'll stop the reign?

Here are the local athletes expected to sign Letters of Intent with colleges beginning Wednesday. For additions, email varsity@evtrib.com and include the athlete's name, high school, sport and college of choice.