By Charles Martindale Ducks softball returns to Southern California for the second straight week, this time heading to Fullerton for the Judi Garman classic. It’s been a promising start to the season for the Ducks, who sit at 12-3 with 11 wins in their last 12 games. Last weekend’s Mary Nutter classic saw Oregon drop the opener to CSU Fullerton before taking the following four games, including close wins over Northwestern and UC San Diego. Their opponents in the Judi Garman classic include Fresno State, Cal Poly SLO, San Jose State, Loyola Marymount University, and Long Beach state. Despite the solid beginning to the year, the Ducks are still sixth in a strong Pac-12 conference, and look to take some steps further with their games this week. On the offensive side, fifth year infielder Allee Bunker has been a driving force, leading the team in OPS and home runs while her .333 average trails only Kyla Morris. Behind the plate, the experienced Terra McGowan leads the Pac-12 in runners caught stealing, along with four home runs and a .580 slugging percentage. The depth of the 20th ranked Ducks has been a strength as well, with junior K.K. Humphreys making her hits count, and the always reliable Ariel Carlson holding things down in the outfield while hitting .333. Hanna Delgado is riding a 7-game hit streak while also providing some speed, leading Oregon in stolen bases. In the circle, Stevie Hansen has been the primary provider for the Ducks, making six starts and boasting a 1.84 ERA. The control for Hansen has been a major factor, limiting opposition to 10 walks and striking out 50 batters so far this year. Hansen’s performances have taken some spotlight away from Morgan Scott, the senior who’s ERA is just a shade over 2.00 through seven appearances. The Ducks six opponents this weekend combine for a record of 40-32, and Oregon will have ample opportunity to continue their run and attempt to move up a few rungs in the conference.