Breaking news: The No. 1-ranked Texas Longhorns softball team concluded the Hillenbrand Invitational with a commanding 10-2 victory over Colorado State in five innings, marking their fourth consecutive win in the tournament. 

Breaking news: The No. 1-ranked Texas Longhorns softball team concluded the Hillenbrand Invitational with a commanding 10-2 victory over Colorado State in five innings, marking their fourth consecutive win in the tournament.

 

The Longhorns’ offense ignited in the second inning, producing eight runs—all with two outs. The highlight was sophomore Katie Stewart’s first career grand slam, contributing significantly to the early lead. This marked the third consecutive day Texas hitters launched a grand slam, a first in program history.

 

Leadoff hitters Ashton Maloney and Kayden Henry were pivotal, going a combined 6-for-6 at the plate. Maloney recorded her third double of the season, while Henry added a two-RBI double during the second-inning surge.

 

In the circle, junior pitcher Citlaly Gutierrez improved to 4-0, delivering a complete game with four hits allowed and three strikeouts over five innings. Her efficient performance ensured the game remained under control, even as Colorado State managed single runs in the second and third innings.

 

Head coach Mike White expressed pride in his team’s resilience and offensive prowess, particularly their ability to extend innings with two-out rallies. He also commended Gutierrez’s strong pitching and the top-of-the-lineup hitters for setting the tone.

 

This victory improved Texas’s record to 15-1 for the season. The Longhorns will return to action at the Longhorn Invitational, starting on Friday, Feb. 28, against South Florida at 4:00 p.m., followed by a matchup with Abilene Christian at 6:30 p.m.

 

Overall, Texas showcased a potent offense and solid pitching throughout the Hillenbrand Invitational, outscoring opponents 48-8 since their sole loss to Stanford earlier in the tournament.