What's Happening?
ESPN has announced that 10 games of the Texas Longhorns baseball team will be broadcast on national television during the 2026 season. The majority of these games will be aired on the SEC Network, with six games scheduled, while three games will be shown on ESPN 2. The Longhorns' only game on the flagship ESPN network will be against Mississippi State on May 3. The schedule includes the entire Red River Rivalry series against Oklahoma, which will be broadcast on the SEC Network from March 26 to March 28. Additionally, games against South Carolina, Texas A&M, Vanderbilt, and Tennessee are part of the televised lineup. The Longhorns, led by head coach Jim Schlossnagle, are entering the season ranked No. 3 in the polls, following a roster overhaul
via the transfer portal after a surprising loss in the Austin Regional to UTSA.
Why It's Important?
The national television coverage of the Texas Longhorns baseball games underscores the team's prominence and the heightened expectations for the 2026 season. This exposure is significant for the program, as it not only enhances the visibility of the team but also boosts recruitment efforts by showcasing the team to a broader audience. The televised games, particularly the Red River Rivalry against Oklahoma, are likely to attract significant viewership, further solidifying the Longhorns' status in college baseball. For fans and stakeholders, the coverage provides an opportunity to engage with the team throughout the season, potentially increasing support and investment in the program.
What's Next?
The Texas Longhorns will kick off their 2026 season against UC Davis on February 13 at UFCU Disch-Faulk Field in Austin, Texas. As the season progresses, the team will face several high-profile opponents, with key matchups being broadcast nationally. The Longhorns' performance in these games will be closely watched, as they aim to meet the high expectations set by their preseason ranking. The team's success could influence future scheduling decisions and media coverage, potentially leading to more national broadcasts in subsequent seasons.
