Feb. 8, 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 Metro Atlantic (seven of nine coaches responded).

The team to beat in your conference is: (tie) Iona and Manhattan

Rank the top three starting pitchers: John Soldinger, Manhattan; Justin Wiley, Iona; Justin Brantley, Siena

The top closer is: Tyler Smith, Rider

The pitcher you least want to face is: Justin Wiley, Iona

The most underrated pitcher is: Mark Bordonaro, Fairfield

The best defensive catcher is: Ramon Ortega, Manhattan

The best catcher arm is: Ramon Ortega, Manhattan

The best defensive infielder is: Yoandry Galan, Manhattan

The best infield arm is: Chris Burke, Iona

The best defensive outfielder is: Brandon Cotten, Rider

The best outfield arm is: Brandon Cotten, Rider

Rank the three best pure hitters: Chris Burke, Iona (right); Nick Crescenzo, Rider; Mike Orefice, Marist

Rank the three biggest power threats: Chris Burke, Iona; James Beck, Iona; Jesse Harris, Niagara; Drew Pettit, Canisius

The hitter you least want to face is: Chris Burke, Iona

The toughest hitter to strike out is: Mike Orefice, Marist

The most underrated hitter is: Preston Aldridge, Saint Peter’s

The best base-runner is: (tie) Justyn Carter, Saint Peter’s; Brandon Cotten, Rider; and Joe Torres, Iona

The best game coach is: Barry Davis, Rider

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Matt Mazurek, Canisius

(photo courtesy of ICGaels.com)