Texas returns to Red and Charline McCombs Field for their second of five fall exhibition games. After dominating Temple College last week 20-0, the Longhorns will host St. Mary’s College tonight at 5:30 p.m.

Last season, the Longhorns finished with an overall record of 46-10 and came in second in the Big 12 behind Missouri with a 14-5 record.

Third baseman Nadia Taylor, first baseman Lexy Bennett and outfielder Courtney Craig lead 12 returners this season as the only three seniors on a 15 member roster.

Texas welcomes two freshman to the mix. Gabby Smith, a right hander from Houston has already seen the field. Last week, Smith pitched two complete innings against Temple without giving up a hit. Marlee Gabaldon, a shortstop from Odessa Texas, rounds out the freshman
class of 2015.

Smith will provide extra relief in the circle for Texas. The Longhorns returned all of their pitchers this year including All-American junior Blaire Luna from Austin. Luna split duties last season with sophomore Rachel Fox with help from junior reliever Kim Bruins.

On offense, a star studded crew returns this season, headlined by junior Taylor Hoagland who is returning to the Forty Acres after playing with the U.S. Women’s National Softball Team this summer.

Printed on Friday, September 30, 2011 as: Softball team returns to play, sets sights on postseason run.