Feb. 16, 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 Summit League (four out of eight coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Oral Roberts*

The top three starting pitchers are: Jerry Sullivan, Oral Roberts*; Brandon Knowling, IPFW*; Mark Serrano, Oral Roberts

The top closer is: T.J. Kelly, Oral Roberts

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Jerry Sullivan, Oral Roberts

The most underrated pitcher is: Boone Whiting, Centenary

The best defensive catcher is: Cooper Stewart, Western Illinois

The best catcher arm is: Cooper Stewart, Western Illinois

The best defensive infielder is: Keli’i Zablan, Southern Utah

The best defensive outfielder is: Justin Wilson, Oakland

The three best pure hitters are: Juan Martinez, Oral Roberts; Nick Freitas, Southern Utah; Michael Notaro, Oral Roberts

The three biggest power threats are: Nick Freitas, Southern Utah*; Michael Notaro, Oral Roberts; Juan Martinez, Oral Roberts

The hitter you least want to face is: Nick Freitas, Southern Utah

The most underrated hitter is: Justin Wilson, Oakland

The best base-runner is: Nick Freitas, Southern Utah

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Oral Roberts

The best game coach is: Rob Walton, Oral Roberts

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

* - unanimous selection