Feb. 6, 2012

CollegeBaseballInsider.com asked college coaches around the country to preview the 2012 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 League (four of six coaches responded).

The team to beat in your conference is: Wright State

Rank the top three starting pitchers: Mike Hernandez, Butler (right); Casey Henn, Wright State; Dom Silvestri, Butler

The top closer is: Michael Schum, Wright State

The pitcher you least want to face is: Michael Schum, Wright State

The most underrated pitcher is: Tyler Deetjen, Valparaiso

The best defensive catcher is: Corey Davis, Wright State

The best catcher arm is: Corey Davis, Wright State

The best defensive infielder is: Justin Kopale, Wright State

The best infield arm is: Justin Kopale, Wright State

The best defensive outfielder is: Ryan Ashe, Wright State

The best outfield arm is: Nick Addison, UIC

Rank the three best pure hitters: Jake Hibberd, Wright State; Paul Hoenecke, Milwaukee (right); Tristan Moore, Wright State

Rank the three biggest power threats: Jake Hibberd, Wright State; Tristan Moore, Wright State; Jeremy Banks, Youngstown State

The hitter you least want to face is: Jake Hibberd, Wright State

The toughest hitter to strike out is: Jake Hibberd, Wright State

The most underrated hitter is: Paul Hoenecke, Milwaukee

The best base-runner is: Chris Manning, Valparaiso

The best game coach is: Rob Cooper, Wright State

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: (tie) Greg Lovelady, Wright State; and Sean McDermott, UIC

(photos courtesy of Butler & Milwaukee Media Relations Offices)