Oklahoma prepares for 2007 campaign

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) _ Their diamond may be covered with ice and snow, but Oklahoma's still preparing for the 2007 baseball season. <br/><br/>The Sooners' kick off the season February 2nd in the

Thursday, January 18th 2007, 6:20 am

By: News On 6

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) _ Their diamond may be covered with ice and snow, but Oklahoma's still preparing for the 2007 baseball season.

The Sooners' kick off the season February 2nd in the UTPA Tournament in Edinburg, Texas against Texas State.

Individual practices for the season began Tuesday indoors to avoid the frigid temperatures in Norman. Individual workouts will continue throughout the week and the Sooners will return to full team practices on Sunday.

This season's pitching staff returns seven hurlers, including two starters with previous experience.

Junior captain Ryan Mottern leads the staff after starting eight games a year ago. The right-hander is in position to to take over the Number One role this season left by Daniel McCutchen.