Softball season in Central Illinois is already upon us and the Mid-Illini conference headlines a strong area group of teams.
Traditional powerhouses Metamora and Washington faced off in a Class 3A sectional title game last year with the Redbirds advancing to the super-sectional round. Both teams have enough talent to play a rematch this year, but East Peoria and Dunlap are ready to make a move with multiple all-conference and college-bound players returning. Canton and Pekin both eye breakout campaigns while Limestone and Morton look to improve behind large contingents of juniors.
Below, we take a look at the top returners, breakout candidates, and games to watch for each team in the Mid-Illini Conference. Schools are listed alphabetically.