Feb. 17, 2008

 

UIC, Wright State to battle for top spot in Horizon League

 

click here for Horizon League preseason feature

 

CollegeBaseballInsider.com asked college coaches around the country to preview the 2008 college baseball season by sharing their insights on the teams and players to watch in their conferences. CBI compiled their answers to provide a sneak peek for the season ahead. click here for CBI Conference Previews

 

Today, we take a look at the Horizon League (four out of seven coaches participated). Valparaiso head coach Tracy Woodson deferred, being his first year in the league.

 

The team to beat is: Illinois-Chicago/Wright State

 

The three top starting pitchers are: Lucas Engle (Youngstown State), Josh Hungerman (Cleveland State), Jon Dages (Butler)

 

The top closer is: Adam Worthington (Illinois-Chicago)

 

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Jon Dages (Butler)

 

The most underrated pitcher is: No pitcher received more than one vote

 

The best defensive catcher is: Gerald Ogrinc (Wright State) (pictured right - photo by Greg Campbell)

 

The best three pure hitters are: Jeremy Hamilton (Wright State)*, John Koehnlein (Youngstown State), Justin Parker (Wright State)

 

The biggest three power threats are: Erich Diedrich (Youngstown State)*, Jeremy Hamilton (Wright State)*, Joe Pauley (Butler)

 

The hitter you least want to face is: Jeremy Hamilton (Wright State) (pictured right - photo by Greg Campbell)

 

The most underrated hitter is: Jake Carr (Illinois-Chicago)

 

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Illinois-Chicago/Wright State

 

*unanimous selection