Feb. 5, 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 Northeast Conference (six out of nine coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Wagner

The top three starting pitchers are: Matt Watson, Wagner; Jared Balbach, Sacred Heart (pictured right); Brady Feigl, Mount St. Mary’s

The top closer is: Mike Matta, Mount St. Mary’s*

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Jared Balbach, Sacred Heart; and Brady Feigl, Mount St. Mary’s

The most underrated pitcher is: no pitcher received more than one vote

The best defensive catcher is: Jeff Heppner, Sacred Heart

The best catcher arm is: Jeff Heppner, Sacred Heart

The best defensive infielder is: Brian Mantutartus, Wagner; Anthony Scialdone, CCSU; and Ryan Terry, Monmouth

The best defensive outfielder is: Josh Boyd, Monmouth; and Shane Eyler, Mount St. Mary’s

The three best pure hitters are: Shane Eyler, Mount St. Mary’s (pictured right); Jared Gruccio, Wagner; Zachary Sand, Fairleigh Dickinson

The three biggest power threats are: Shane Eyler, Mount St. Mary’s; Vin Avella, Wagner; Nick Pulsonetti, Monmouth

The hitter you least want to face is: Vin Avella, Wagner

The most underrated hitter is: no player received more that one vote

The best base-runner is: Damian Csakai, Wagner

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Richmond County Bank Ballpark, Wagner

The best game coach is: Charlie Hickey, CCSU

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Pat Hall, CCSU; and Jason Jurgens, Wagner

*unanimous selection

(photos courtesy of Sacred Heart and MSM Media Relations Offices)