Feb. 8, 2013

CBI America East preview

Stony Brook is favored to repeat in America East

Stony Brook is predicted to stay on top in the America East Conference Preseason Coaches’ Poll, in voting by the league’s head coaches as released by the conference office.

The Seawolves, under head coach Matt Senk (left), secured four first-place votes and 23 points to take the top spot. Maine got one first-place vote and 19 points to edge Binghamton for second. The Bearcats received one first-place vote and 18 points. Albany was fourth, followed by Hartford and UMBC.

Stony Brook set a program record with 52 victories in 2012 on its way to its first College World Series appearance, as well as its first Regional and Super Regionals titles. The Seawolves were the first-ever America East team to reach Omaha. Stony Brook return 18 lettermen from last season’s squad.

The 2013 campaign begins on Friday, Feb. 15, with conference play kicking off the weekend of March 16-17. Maine plays at Stony Brook to highlight that weekend. The America East Tournament will be held on the home field of the top seek. The four-team double elimination tournament will be played May 22-24.

2013 America East Preseason Poll

Team, Points (First Place) (2012 AEC, Overall Records)

1. Stony Brook 23 (4) (21-3, 52-15)

2. Maine 19 (1) (11-11, 28-28)

3. Binghamton 18 (1) (13-9, 23-26)

4. Albany 13 (16-8, 22-32-1)

5. Hartford 12 (7-17, 16-40)

6. UMBC 5 (2-22, 10-42)

(photo courtesy of SBU Media Relations)