The Los Ba&#241;os High varsity softball team will be aiming toward success this year, as well as looking to knock off Buhach Colony High of Atwater.</p><p>The Tigers have its returning ace back in Kelsie Monroe, who has essentially been playing softball with the Tigers' program year-round.</p><p>Taylor Mendez is a returning sophomore who will play shortstop this season and has a year of varsity experience under her belt. Taylor Clancy is another returning junior who will play in the outfield.</p><p>Xitlalli Bobadilla is back at third base and Taylor Snowden is returning at second base, which should produce a solid -- experienced -- Tiger infield.</p><p>"Buhach has won the (Central California Conference) the last two years," Los Ba&#241;os head coach Charlie Pikas said. "So until someone knocks them out they're probably the team to beat.</p><p>"The league is a lot more wide open this year and there are a handful of teams that could battle for a (CCC) title.</p><p>"Our chances are just as good as anyone's in the league right now."</p><p>The Tigers will also be depending on a trio of newcomers from the sophomore level.</p><p>Samantha Fuller, Michelle Ceja and Nicole Fairbanks were all contributors at the sophomore level last year.</p><p>The Tigers' varsity softball team will play a doubleheader today at Clovis High of Fresno.</p><p>On Tuesday, LB will play against Patterson High on the road at 3:30 p.m.</p><p>-John-Joel Griffiths