Feb. 9, 2010

click here for coaches' OVC preseason poll

click here for coaches' preseason All-OVC team

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 Ohio Valley Conference (eight out of 10 coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Eastern Illinois and Jacksonville State

The top three starting pitchers are: Mike Recchia, Eastern Illinois* (pictured right); Josh Mueller, Eastern Illinois; Chris Craycraft, Murray State

The top closer is: Bill Henke, Jacksonville State

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Mike Recchia, Eastern Illinois

The most underrated pitcher is: Lee Henry, Tennessee Tech

The best defensive catcher is: Jim Klocke, Southeast Missouri

The best catcher arm is: Jim Klocke, Southeast Missouri

The best defensive infielder is: Drew Lee, Morehead State

The best defensive outfielder is: Todd Cunningham, Jacksonville State

The three best pure hitters are: Todd Cunningham, Jacksonville State; Wes Cunningham, Murray State; Jayson Langfels, Eastern Kentucky

The three biggest power threats are: Jayson Langfels, Eastern Kentucky (pictured right); Drew Lee, Morehead State; A.J. Kirby-Jones, Tennessee Tech

The hitter you least want to face is: Jayson Langfels, Eastern Kentucky

The most underrated hitter is: Wes Cunningham, Murray State

The best base-runner is: Jon Clinard, Austin Peay

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Capaha Field, Southeast Missouri

The best game coach is: Jim Case, Jacksonville State

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Steve Gillispie, Jacksonville State

*unanimous selection

(photos courtesy of EIU and EKU Media Relations Offices)