MaxPreps 2015 Montana preseason softball Fab 5, presented by the Army National Guard

1. Billings West
2014 record: 23-6
Head coach: Ed Kriskovich

The Golden Bears won last season's AA state title on one of the wackiest plays in sports history: a walk-off strikeout. Now they are back behind senior all-state outfielder Ashley Davis and will look for a repeat behind a legendary coach. Replacing first baseman McKenzie Shellnut will be important.

View last season's Montana softball rankings, presented by the Army National Guard

2. Big Sky (Missoula)
2014 record: 20-8
Head coach: Dennis Staves

The Eagles were the ones on the wrong side of the crazy AA finish but they have a big gun coming back in the pitching circle. Junior Macey Newbary returns after an all-state season and will be the centerpiece of the quest for AA glory. The offense lost a big piece with the graduation of designated hitter Hope McCracken.

View last season's Montana softball playoff brackets

3. Russell (Great Falls)
2014 record: 18-4
Head coach: Roger Spring

A pair of all-state players return, and that's reason for optimism at CMR after last season's exit from the playoffs. Senior pitcher Quinn Hartman will look to lead the team in the pitching circle, and on offense, Caitlin Soltesz comes back for her senior season in the outfield after earning all-state accolades.

View last season's Montana softball stat leaders

4. Glacier (Kalispell)
2014 record: 12-10-1
Head coach: Andrew Fors

Junior pitcher Ali Williams returns after her all-state performance last season and she will be joined by second baseman Kayleena Ikeda, who was also honored with all-state accolades as a junior.

5. Hellgate (Missoula)
2014 record: 12-9-1
Head coach: Kevin Callaghan

The Knights will look to grow alongside Callie Mckillop, who earned all-state honors as a freshman in the utility position. They'll look to gain upon their 2014 record.