Kansas University’s softball players finally can leave their suitcases in the closet.

After playing their first 18 games on the road, the Jayhawks will make their home debut this weekend in a three-team tournament at Arrocha Ballpark.

The three-day tourney will begin today, with KU meeting Louisville at 1 p.m. and Southwest Missouri State at 3 p.m.

After early struggles on the road, the Jayhawks have won eight of their last 11 and improved to 10-8.

“We’re really excited about how we’ve been playing in the last three tournaments,” pitcher Serena Settlemier said. “With the new girls, we’re ready to play at home in front of our home crowd.”

KU will meet Louisville and SMS again Saturday, then wrap up with a Sunday game against Louisville.

With five games in three days, KU coach Tracy Bunge is concerned about her pitching. Kassie Humphreys, who has started six games to date, has been ill and unable to practice this week.

Settlemier and freshman left-hander Christina Ross may have to pitch all five games.

Offensively, the Jayhawks have been led by shortstop Destiny Frankenstein, who leads the team with a .380 average.

Louisville has been hot as of late and comes to Lawrence with a 10-7 record. Southwest Missouri State is 5-5.

KU in Jayhawk Classic notes (.pdf)

More than anything, Bunge said, the Jayhawks would be happy to play in familiar surroundings.

“We’re very excited about being our own beds, playing on our own field and having a chance to play in front of our fans,” Bunge said.