Freshman utility Caylee Cook catches Friday during practice at Sports Blast as senior pitcher Brittney Lang bats and junior infielder Kelsea Ashton is on deck. After a final record last season of 36-20 and taking second in the Missouri Valley Conference after losing the championship game to Illinois State, the Salukis share the top spot in a preseason coaches poll with rival Redbirds. SIU travels Friday to Clermont, Fla. for the Dot Richardson Invitational to kick off its season.TIFFANY BLANCHETTE