The written preview lands about a day and a half before the game, once the lineups, the injuries and the market have settled. Until then the boards below carry the matchup: recent form, how the two sides compare, and where each of them sits.
The full preview, matchup keys, probable starters and the storylines to watch, posts closer to game time, once lineups are set.
Each side's most recent results, newest first, with the score and who they played. These reach back into last season where a club has not played five yet, which is why every row carries its date.
Des Moines Cubs
Mud Hens
ClippersClippersClippersClippers
Papillion Storm Chasers
IndiansIndians
SaintsSaintsSaintsThe full ladder, with both clubs marked.
Rochester Red Wings83-55.601L1
Oklahoma City Comets82-57.590W11
Las Vegas Aviators79-59.572W1
Sacramento River Cats77-60.562L1St. Paul Saints78-61.561W1Papillion Storm Chasers63-74.460L1Des Moines Cubs57-79.419L4