Feb. 5, 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 Patriot League (six out of seven coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Army*

The top three starting pitchers are: Matt Fouch, Army (pictured right); Greg Angelo, Lehigh; Matt Shapiro, Holy Cross

The top closer is: J.D. Melton, Navy

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Matt Fouch, Army

The most underrated pitcher is: Ben Koenigsfeld, Army

The best defensive catcher is: Steven Soares, Navy

The best catcher arm is: Steven Soares, Navy

The best defensive infielder is: Clint Moore, Army

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

The three best pure hitters are: Clint Moore, Army*; Michael Speciale, Navy; Kevin McKague, Army

The three biggest power threats are: Michael Speciale, Navy* (pictured left); Clint Moore, Army; Brendan McGaheran, Lehigh

The hitter you least want to face is: Michael Speciale, Navy

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

The best base-runner is: Clint Moore, Army

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Fitton Field, Holy Cross

The best game coach is: Gene Depew, Bucknell

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: No assistant coach received more than one vote

(photos courtesy of Army and Navy Media Relations Office)