Feb. 4, 2009

click here for Horizon Preseason Poll

 

Illinois-Chicago is Team to Beat in Horizon League

 

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 Horizon League (five out of seven coaches participated).

 

The team to beat is: Illinois-Chicago

 

The top three starting pitchers are: Aaron Swenson, Youngstown State; Jon Durket, Wright State; Derrick Miramontes, Illinois-Chicago

 

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

 

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Adam Worthington, Illinois-Chicago

 

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

 

The best defensive catcher is: Gerald Ogrinc, Wright State*

 

The best catcher arm is: Gerald Ogrinc, Wright State*

 

The best defensive infielder is: Rafael Garcia, Illinois-Chicago

 

The best defensive outfielder is: Dan DeBruin, Valparaiso

 

The three best pure hitters are: Shawn Wozniak, Milwaukee*; Kyle Schultz, Butler*; Casey McGrew, Wright State; Brett Schaefer, Illinois-Chicago

 

The three biggest power threats are: Brett Schaefer, Illinois-Chicago*; Shawn Wozniak, Milwaukee*; Jeff Mercer, Wright State

 

The hitter you least want to face is: Shawn Wozniak, Milwaukee (pictured left)

 

The most underrated hitter is: Casey McGrew, Wright State

 

The best base-runner is: Andy Gerhartz, Milwaukee

 

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Nischwitz Stadium, Wright State; and Eastwood Field, Youngstown State

 

The best game coach is: Mike Dee, Illinois-Chicago

 

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Sean McDermott, Illinois-Chicago*

(photos courtesy of UIC and UWM Media Relations Office)