Feb. 3, 2009

CollegeBaseballInsider.com asked college coaches around the country to preview the 2009 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 Big East (seven out of 12 coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Louisville*

The top three starting pitchers are: Justin Marks, Louisville*; Sean Black, Seton Hall; Eric Maust, Notre Dame

The top closer is: Jake Geglein, Cincinnati; and Shawn Sanford, USF

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Justin Marks, Louisville

The most underrated pitcher is: Nate Reed, Pittsburgh

The best defensive catcher is: Jeff Arnold, Louisville

The best catcher arm is: Jeff Arnold, Louisville; and Tobias Streich, West Virginia

The best defensive infielder is: Chris Dominguez, Louisville

The best defensive outfielder is: No outfielder received more than one vote

The three best pure hitters are: Chris Dominguez, Louisville (pictured left); A.J. Pollock, Notre Dame; Ryan Lockwood, USF

The three biggest power threats are: Chris Dominguez, Louisville*; Jaren Matthews, Rutgers; Mike Spina, Cincinnati

The hitter you least want to face is: Chris Dominguez, Louisville

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

The best base-runner is: Jamel Scott, Cincinnati

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Jim Patterson Stadium, Louisville

The best game coach is: Ed Blankmeyer, St. John’s

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Roger Williams, Louisville

*unanimous selection

(photo courtesy of Louisville Media Relations Office)