PREVIEW: Longhorns Set For Opening Weekend Series vs. San Diego
The Texas Longhorns baseball team, led by Coach David Pierce, kicks off their 2024 season against the San Diego Toreros at UFCU Disch-Falk Field this Friday at 7 p.m. CT. Following this, games are scheduled for Saturday (2:30 p.m. CT/LHN) and Sunday (1 p.m. CT.
The team's initial schedule includes eight consecutive home games and 19 of the first 25 played at UFCU Disch-Falk Field.
Lebarron Johnson Jr., recognized on the Golden Spikes Award Preseason Watch List, is expected to make significant contributions in the season opener.
Historically, the Longhorns and San Diego are deadlocked at 7-7, with Texas holding a slight 3-2 edge in Austin. This marks the third encounter between the two teams on Opening Weekend, having previously met in 2006 and 2007, and the first matchup since 2015. Additionally, it's only the second time in the past six seasons that the Longhorns commence their season at home.
Following the 2023 season, Texas witnessed the departure of five players to the MLB Draft. However, the team also welcomed back five crucial players who will spearhead their campaign in 2024.
Notable losses in the draft included Dylan Campbell, selected in the fourth round, and Lucas Gordon, a sixth-round pick.
Both outfielder Porter Brown and infielder Peyton Powell went unselected in the draft, and returned to Austin, strengthening the team's offensive lineup for the upcoming season.
Charlie Hurley, Lebarron Johnson Jr., and Tanner Witt are poised to assume significant pitching roles, while the addition of freshman outfielder Will Gasparino brings notable talent to the roster.
Last season, Texas narrowly missed securing a spot in the College World Series, falling short of a third consecutive appearance and the program's 39th overall. A
s they gear up for the 2024 campaign, the Longhorns boast a formidable roster comprising 22 returning players from the 2023 squad, along with 13 freshmen and six transfers.
Among the returning talent are four everyday starters: outfielder Porter Brown, infielders Jack O'Dowd, Peyton Powell, and Jared Thomas, alongside infielder Jalin Flores and catcher Rylan Galvan, who saw significant action last season. Lebarron Johnson Jr., coming off a stellar 2023 season with an 8-4 record and a 2.91 ERA, assumes the role of staff ace.
Notably, the Longhorns showcased a robust .293 team batting average and smashed 91 home runs, the second-highest tally in program history. Their pitching staff, with a 4.18 ERA, led the Big 12 and ranked 10th nationally.
As Texas embarks on its quest for College World Series glory once again, the stage is set for a thrilling season filled with anticipation and determination.