Zimmermans sparking Providence

On leave from teaching with newborn twins, Kelly Harrington is still coaching softball at Providence Academy, a private school in Plymouth. And while she's seeing the gradual growth of her children at home, on the softball diamond she -- and everybody else -- is seeing the lightning quick speed of another set.

Heading into this week, the Lions have stolen 123 bases. Half of those have come by way of the feet of seniors Kari and Esti Zimmerman.

"They're so quick," Harrington said, noting neither has been caught stealing so far. "I give them a sign from first [base]. But when they're on second, I always tell them if they see something or the pitcher isn't paying attention, so ahead and steal. I can't tell you how many times they've done that."

Esti (35 stolen bases) and Kari (27) are no strangers to the team.

They helped Providence Academy go 13-7 as freshmen. That mark bumped to 16-5 last year and the Lions this season are expected to be one of the top seeds in the Class 1A, Section 4 tournament which begins this week.

Neither was caught stealing a base last year, either. But they combined for only 31 steals last year.

"They're excellent, heads-up base runners," Harrington said. "When they get on the basepath, they're a terror. They're the core of our team."

Harrington admits some of the girls' steals have come against catchers with not much talent or experience in throwing out runners. But in order to steal a base, one must first get there. Esti, the team's No. 2 hitter, and Kari, No. 3, certainly have done that.

"I get them on, and we have hitters four, five and six coming up," Harrington said. "That's pretty nice."

The Zimmerman sisters will continue their softball careers next season playing for St. Olaf.

BRIAN STENSAAS