Longhorns Continue Home Stand Against Mercer

The Longhorns are looking for their second straight win as they welcome Mercer to town.

The Texas Longhorns (5-7) are back in action in another midweek game as they prepare to host the Mercer Bears (9-4) in the second game of a 14-game home stand. 

Texas got a sorely needed win on Tuesday in the first game of its home stand, coming from behind with a four-run sixth inning to pull out a 7-5 win over the Sam Houston State Bearkats. 

It hasn't been the easiest start to the season for the Longhorns, which isn't all too surprising when you consider that they had to replace seven starters from a College World Series Team. 

However, the flashes are there for a young lineup looking to find its footing while the pitching staff has continued to keep them in games. 

That being said, with Mercer coming to town it does not get any easier for the Longhorns. 

How to watch/listen: 

Wednesday @ 6:30 p.m. CT (Longhorn Network/TexasSports.com/audio)

A look at Mercer's season so far

The Bears enter Wednesday's game with an impressive 9-4 record, and riding a four-game win streak after a series sweep of Bellarmine. Mercer's offense has led the way so far, having scored 15 runs and 21 runs in a game through 13 games. 

Mercer by the numbers

Record: 9-4

Runs scored: 91

Runs allowed: 80

Team Avg.: .263

Team ERA: 5.40 

Mercer wins this game if...

They can knock out the Longhorns starter early. Wednesday is likely to be a bullpen day for the Longhorns, and while the bullpen has looked good at times they may not want to burn through arms ahead of a three-game weekend series. As a result, the Bears could hand Texas a loss if their offense looks as potent as it has at times this season. 

Texas wins this game if...

The bats continue to show signs of life and take advantage of a shaky Mercer pitching staff. Through 12 games this season the Longhorns are batting .242 as a team, but have shown signs of life lately. If they can continue to string together good plate appearances than the Longhorns could get their second straight win to star the lengthy home stand. 

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You can find Connor Zimmerlee on Twitter @Connorjz98

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