A Dream Realized
Tanner Hornback, a former UT Tyler infielder, has officially committed to the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns baseball program after entering the transfer portal. His decision marks the culmination of a collegiate journey that included two appearances in the NCAA Division II College World Series, where he helped the Patriots reach the national stage.
The move to Louisiana was not taken lightly. Hornback said the program aligned with a lifelong dream of playing for the Ragin' Cajuns and, equally important, brought him closer to family. Conversations with head coach Matt Deggs and a personal connection to the Robichaux family reinforced his belief that Louisiana was the right fit.
Family has been a constant presence throughout Hornback's career. Growing up in Texas, he watched UL games with his grandfather, who he credits as one of his biggest supporters. The influence of Tony Robichaux's twin brother, Tim, also deepened his ties to the Louisiana program, shaping his perception of the team's culture and community.
Family Ties and Future Goals
Hornback emphasized that his choice was driven by trusting his instincts and the support of his loved ones. He sees the transition as an opportunity to grow not only as a player but also as a man, learning life lessons through the sport he loves. "Baseball has taught me resilience, discipline, and the value of teamwork," he said in a recent interview.
The Ragin' Cajuns' 2027 roster will welcome several newcomers, including Hornback, who joins a program that has already seen nine players enter the NCAA transfer portal since the season's end. This infusion of talent signals a dynamic shift for Louisiana, which aims to remain competitive in the highly contested conference landscape.
Reflecting on his time at UT Tyler, Hornback noted the significance of the program's back‑to‑back Division II World Series appearances and the role his teammates and coaches played in that success. He also acknowledged the departure of head coach Brent Porche, which prompted his entry into the portal, but ultimately felt that Louisiana offered the next step in his athletic and personal development.