Feb. 17, 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 Mountain West (four out of seven coaches participated).

The team to beat is: TCU*

The top three starting pitchers are: Kyle Winkler, TCU* (pictured right); Jordan Whatcott, Utah*; Tanner Peters, UNLV

The top closer is: Addison Reed, San Diego State*

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Addison Reed, San Diego State

The most underrated pitcher is: Tyler Lockwood, TCU

The best defensive catcher is: Bryan Holaday, TCU*

The best catcher arm is: Rafael Neda, New Mexico*

The best defensive infielder is: Daniel Gonzalez, New Mexico

The best defensive outfielder is: Max Willett, New Mexico

The three best pure hitters are: Ryan Honeycutt, New Mexico; Rafael Neda, New Mexico; Matt Alexander, Air Force; C.J. Cron, Utah (pictured left)

The three biggest power threats are: Cory Vaughn, San Diego State; C.J. Cron, Utah; Rafael Neda, New Mexico

The hitter you least want to face is: C.J. Cron, Utah

The most underrated hitter is: Bryan Holaday, TCU

The best base-runner is: Andrew Law, BYU*

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Lupton Stadium, TCU*

The best game coach is: Bill Kinneberg, Utah

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Randy Mazey, TCU

*unanimous selection

(photos courtesy of TCU and Utah Media Relations Offices)