FREMONT — A three-year varsity softball player and a senior, James Logan High's Stefanie Barnes had to get used to a new role, being a leader.

It's not exactly something she was looking forward to and not something that has come easy, but in her own way, she's exactly the kind of leader Logan needs.

"I'm not really vocal," Barnes said. "I mean, I'll say things and talk to the girls, but I'm not the loudest on the team. But I've definitely gotten used to it."

Barnes carries herself with a swagger. She's confident, not cocky. And she has to be with her position — pitcher. She sets the tone. It's her in the circle controlling the pace of the game.

"I've tried to be more vocal, and I think it's easier when you get older," Barnes said. "I used to watch older girls and know how they led, and I know what I need to do."

Still, the best leadership quality Barnes has is her demeanor — both on and off the field. She's one of the first players at practice. She's one of the hardest workers. And when things don't go her way, she's able to shake it off and move on.

About six weeks ago leadoff hitter Alex Stange went down with an season-ending ACL injury. Stange was a big reason for Logan's offense, and without her, there was a gap to fill.

And while the entire team has done what it could, Barnes' offensive numbers have surged as she continues to be dominant in the circle.

Simply put, she's elevated her game.

In an 11-1 win

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over American last week, Barnes pitched a three-hitter. She struck out nine batters and walked none. She also hit a triple to help her cause.

And now the Colts (20-3 overall) are trying to cap a perfect Mission Valley Athletic League season. With an 11-0 mark, the Colts can accomplish that feat with a win at Irvington today at 3:45 p.m.

"Going undefeated is a big goal," Barnes said. "We haven't done it in a long time."

The most recent time Logan went undefeated was in the 2002 season.