Behind Enemy Lines: Texas at Auburn series preview with Auburn Wire
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It's the biggest series in the 2026 college baseball season to date. Two top five teams face off in a meaningful matchup that could have long-lasting ramifications as the No. 2 Texas Longhorns travel to Alabama for a three game weekend series with the No. 4 Auburn Tigers.
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The Longhorns are coming off a midweek 6-1 upset at the hands of Tarleton State, but have certainly been one of the best teams in college baseball so far this season. Coach Jim Schlossnagle's squad is 18-2 on the year, with wins over Ohio State, Michigan State and No. 20 Coastal Carolina.
Last weekend, Texas took 2 of 3 from Ole Miss to open the SEC conference schedule. The loss to the Rebels last Friday was the first of the year for UT. Both the Horns and the Tigers rank in the top five of the SEC in batting average and strikeouts, and are No. 1 and No. 2, respectively, in team ERA.
What else should Longhorns fans know about Auburn? We asked Taylor Jones of Auburn Wire some questions ahead of the big weekend series. We also answered some questions about Texas for Tigers fans.
1. Auburn beat No. 3 Georgia Tech this week. How big is that win being seen within the Auburn fanbase?
Auburn Wire: It was massive because Auburn passed its first test in what is a historical week on the Plains. The game against No. 3 Georgia Tech was the highest-rated matchup in Plainsman Park history, and it will hold the title for exactly three days, as No. 2 Texas comes to town this weekend. Auburn's bats have really helped its pitching in the last two games, and it seems like the team really has it together at a great time.
2. Historically, Auburn has had success in baseball but haven’t broken through to win the College World Series. Do you think this team can win it all?
Auburn Wire: It sure does seem that way early on. Pitching was a concern on the two most recent trips to Omaha, but it now seems that pitching has caught up with the bats, and Auburn could be a dangerous team this season. However, baseball is a game of "being hot at the right time," so its dominance must continue into the deep part of the season.
3. What is Auburn's biggest weakness?
Auburn Wire: So far, it has been offense and lineup structure. Auburn does not strike out much, but it struggles to piece runs together and give its starting pitchers support. However, Auburn has scored 18 runs over its last two games, so it will be interesting to see how the trend continues this weekend. As far as the lineup goes, there is no set designated hitter, and several players have played multiple positions in an effort to find the right combination. Players such as Cade Belyeu and Logan Gregorio have contributed, but have not gotten to play every game.
4. At 3-0 with a 1.53 ERA, Dylan Volantis might be the best pitcher in the sport. What are your thoughts on him and how will Auburn attack the 6-foot-6 lefty?
Auburn Wire: It will be interesting to see how Auburn battles Volantis since they seem to do most of their damage late in games to opposing bullpens. I expect Auburn to be patient at the plate, maybe foul a few balls off, to rack up his pitch count and get him out of the game earlier than expected.
5. What is your prediction for the series?
Auburn Wire: I will be looking for Auburn's bats to attack Texas starting pitching early, and for Auburn's starting pitchers, especially Jackson Sanders and Alex Petrovic on Saturday and Sunday, respectively, to establish command early and quickly bounce back in times of adversity. There are also injury concerns with infielder Eric Guevara and center fielder Bristol Carter to keep an eye on. If they play, that will give Auburn more confidence heading into the weekend.
I expect a very entertaining, Super Regional-like feel in Auburn this weekend, with Auburn winning, 2-1.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Behind Enemy Lines: Auburn expert breaks down Top 5 clash with Texas