NORTH MANKATO — The MO for the Byron High School softball team's offense all season long was about the Bears' ability to slug. Home runs, doubles, and extra bases were their calling card throughout the 2026 campaign. In fact, the Bears had homered in three consecutive games entering Wednesday's Class 3A state semifinal. Yet, as Wednesday's game dragged on, it was clear a little small ball was going to be needed. That opportunity came in the fift…