Feb. 1, 2011

CollegeBaseballInsider.com asked college coaches around the country to preview the 2011 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 of six coaches responded).

The team to beat is: Stony Brook

Rank the top three starting pitchers: Nick Tropeano, Stony Brook (pictured right); James Giulietti, Binghamton; David Kubiak, Albany

The top closer is: William Carmona, Stony Brook

The pitcher you least want to face is: *Nick Tropeano, Stony Brook

The most underrated pitcher is: Tyler Johnson, Stony Brook

The best defensive catcher is: C.J. Lukaszewski, Binghamton

The best catcher arm is: C.J. Lukaszewski, Binghamton

The best defensive infielder is: Chad Marshall, Stony Brook

The best infield arm is: Joel Stubbs, Binghamton

The best defensive outfielder is: Taylor Lewis, Maine

The best outfield arm is: Peter Bregartner, Binghamton

Rank the three best pure hitters: Taylor Lewis, Maine; Corey Taylor, Binghamton (pictured right); Dave Ciocchi, Binghamton

Rank the three biggest power threats: William Carmona, Stony Brook; Andy Drexel, Hartford; Corey Taylor, Binghamton

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

The toughest hitter to strike out is: Chad Marshall, Stony Brook

The most underrated hitter is: Nolan Gaige, Albany

The best base-runner is: (tie) Michael Fransoso, Maine; and Chad Marshall, Stony Brook

The best game coach is: Matt Senk, Stony Brook

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Joe Pennucci, Stony Brook

*unanimous selection

(photos courtesy of Stony Brook & Binghamton Media Relations Offices)