Feb. 3, 2010

CollegeBaseballInsider.com asked college coaches around the country to preview the 2010 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 America East (five out of six coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Maine

The top three starting pitchers are: Nick Tropeano, Stony Brook; Kevin Scanlan, Maine; David Kubiak, Albany

The top closer is: No pitcher received more than one vote.

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Kevin Scanlan, Maine

The most underrated pitcher is: James Giulietti, Binghamton

The best defensive catcher is: Justin Echevarria, Stony Brook; and Joe Mercurio, Maine

The best catcher arm is: Joe Mercurio, Maine

The best defensive infielder is: Tony Patane, Maine*

The best defensive outfielder is: Henry Dunn, Binghamton

The three best pure hitters are: Dave Ciocchi, Binghamton* (pictured right); Chad Marshall, Stony Brook; Robert Dyer, Stony Brook

The three biggest power threats are: Corey Taylor, Binghamton*; Robert Dyer, Stony Brook*; Brendan Rowland, Albany

The hitter you least want to face is: Dave Ciocchi, Binghamton

The most underrated hitter is: Jim Calderone, Binghamton

The best base-runner is: Brendan Rowland, Albany; and Henry Dunn, Binghamton

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Fiondella Field, Hartford

The best game coach is: Tim Sinicki, Binghamton

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Bob Mumma, UMBC

*unanimous selection

(photo courtesy of Binghamton Media Relations Office)