Feb. 18, 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 MEAC (five out of seven coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Bethune-Cookman* (head coach Mervyl Melendez pictured left)

The top three starting pitchers are: Hiram Burgos, Bethune-Cookman*; Eric Thomas, Bethune-Cookman; Quinn Bright, Norfolk State

The top closer is: Chris Chapman, Bethune-Cookman

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Hiram Burgos, Bethune-Cookman

The most underrated pitcher is: Josh Schmidt, Delaware State

The best defensive catcher is: Drew Clark, Bethune-Cookman

The best catcher arm is: Wynton Weather, Delaware State

The best defensive infielder is: Jose Sanchez, Delaware State

The best defensive outfielder is: C.J. Beatty, North Carolina A&T

The three best pure hitters are: C.J. Beatty, North Carolina A&T; Jared Jeffries, Florida A&M; Harry Williams, Coppin State

The three biggest power threats are: C.J. Beatty, North Carolina A&T; Alejandro Jimenez, Bethune-Cookman; Jared Jeffries, Florida A&M

The hitter you least want to face is: C.J. Beatty, North Carolina A&T

The most underrated hitter is: Jared Jeffries, Florida A&M

The best base-runner is: Phil Vaughn, Maryland-Eastern Shore

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Jackie Robinson Ballpark, Bethune-Cookman

The best game coach is: Mervyl Melendez, Bethune-Cookman

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Brett Richardson, Florida A&M

(Photo courtesy of Bethune-Cookman Media Relations Office)