Feb. 12, 2009

click here for OVC Preseason Poll

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 OVC (six out of nine coaches participated).

The team to beat is:  Jacksonville State

The top three starting pitchers are: Ben Tootle, Jacksonville State* (pictured left); Josh Mueller, Eastern Illinois; Tyler Kehrer, Eastern Illinois

The top closer is: Alex Jones, Jacksonville State

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Ben Tootle, Jacksonville State

The most underrated pitcher is: Josh Mueller, Eastern Illinois

The best defensive catcher is: Jim Klocke, Southeast Missouri*

The best catcher arm is: Jim Klocke, Southeast Missouri*

The best defensive infielder is: Drew Lee, Morehead State; and Bert Smith, Jacksonville State

The best defensive outfielder is: Brett Nommenson, Eastern Illinois

The three best pure hitters are: Brett Nommensen, Eastern Illinois (pictured right); Jim Klocke, Southeast Missouri; A.J. Kirby-Jones, Tennessee Tech

The three biggest power threats are: Tyrell Cummings, Southeast Missouri*; Matt Wagner, Southeast Missouri; Nick Harris, Southeast Missouri

The hitter you least want to face is: Brett Nommensen, Eastern Illinois

The most underrated hitter is: Tyrell Cummings, Southeast Missouri

The best base-runner is: No base-runner received more than one vote

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Capaha Field, Southeast Missouri

The best game coach is: Jim Case, Jacksonville State

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Steve Gillispie, Jacksonville State

* - unanimous selection 

(photos courtesy of JSU and EIU Media Relations Office)