Feb. 19, 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 SWAC (five out of 10 coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Southern and Texas Southern

The top three starting pitchers are: Chris Mills, Mississippi Valley State; Josh Froneberger, Jackson State; Sherrard Brooks, Southern

The top closer is: Justin Moring, Arkansas-Pine Bluff

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Josh Froneberger, Jackson State

The most underrated pitcher is: Darryl Jordan, Alcorn State

The best defensive catcher is: Michael Thomas, Southern

The best catcher arm is: Michael Thomas, Southern*

The best defensive infielder is: Myrio Richard, Prairie View A&M

The best defensive outfielder is: Deshaun Dilworth, Texas Southern

The three best pure hitters are: Earnest Rhone Jr., Texas Southern; Myrio Richard, Prairie View A&M; Frazier Hall, Southern

The three biggest power threats are: Myrio Richard, Prairie View A&M; Darrion Pedro, Alabama State; Jabari Graham, Alcorn State

The hitter you least want to face is: Myrio Richard, Prairie View A&M

The most underrated hitter is: Brent Smith, Grambling State

The best base-runner is: Cortez Cole, Jackson State

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: ASU Baseball Park, Alcorn State

The best game coach is: Omar Johnson, Jackson State

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