Feb. 4, 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 the Horizon (six out of seven coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Wright State

The top three starting pitchers are: Bryce Shafer, Valparaiso* (pictured right); Aaron Swenson, Youngstown State; Alex Kaminsky, Wright State

The top closer is: Jarad Miller, Valparaiso; and Michael Schum, Wright State

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Phil Klein, Youngstown State

The most underrated pitcher is: Bryce Shafer, Valparaiso

The best defensive catcher is: Gerald Ogrinc, Wright State

The best catcher arm is: Gerald Ogrinc, Wright State

The best defensive infielder is: Aaron Fields, Wright State

The best defensive outfielder is: Doug Dekoning, Milwaukee

The three best pure hitters are: Casey McGrew, Wright State; Tim Patzman, Milwaukee; Quentin Cate, Wright State

The three biggest power threats are: Quentin Cate, Wright State (pictured right); Casey McGrew, Wright State; Tim Patzman, Milwaukee

The hitter you least want to face is: Quentin Cate, Wright State

The most underrated hitter is: Aaron Fields, Wright State

The best base-runner is: Steve McGuiggan, UIC

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Nischwitz Stadium, Wright State; and Eastwood Field, Youngstown State

The best game coach is: Rob Cooper, Wright State

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Sean McDermott, UIC

*unanimous selection

(photos courtesy of Valpo and WSU Media Relations Offices)