January 27, 2005
The No. 23 Texas A&M softball team was picked to finish third in the 2005 Big 12 Softball Preseason Coaches poll, the conference announced Wednesday.
The Aggies return seven everyday starters, including the 2004 Big 12 Freshman of the Year and five All-Big 12 performers, from last year's team that finished the season one-half game out of first in the Big 12 and advanced to a third consecutive NCAA Tournament.
No. 6 Texas is picked to finish first in the conference followed by No. 4 Oklahoma, Texas A&M, No. 17 Baylor and No. 20 Nebraska, rounding out the top five.
Texas A&M opens the 2005 season on Friday, February 4 at 3 p.m. against North Texas at the Aggie Softball Complex.
2005 Big 12 Softball Preseason Coaches Poll
Team (first-place votes) Points
1. Texas (6) 77
2. Oklahoma (4) 75
3. Texas A&M 61
4. Baylor 58
5. Nebraska 48
6. Missouri 43
7. Oklahoma State 32
8. Kansas 24
9. Texas Tech 20
10. Iowa State 12
*points were awarded nine for first, eight for second, seven for third, etc.