Feb. 7, 2013

CollegeBaseballInsider.com surveyed college coaches around the country to preview the 2013 college baseball season by sharing their thoughts on the teams and players to watch in their conferences. CBI compiled their answers to provide insight on the upcoming season. click here for CBI Conference Previews

Today, we take a look at the MAAC (seven of nine coaches responded).

No change in membership from 2012

The team to beat: Canisius

The top starting pitchers: Mike Murphy, Rider (right); Garrett Cortright, Canisius; John Soldinger, Manhattan

The top closer: Jon Fitzsimmons, Canisius

The pitcher you least want to face: Brett Houseal, Marist

The most underrated pitcher: E.J. Ashworth, Fairfield; Zach Hopf, Saint Peter’s; Brett Houseal, Marist

The best defensive catcher: Ramon Ortega, Manhattan

The best catcher arm: Ramon Ortega, Manhattan

The best defensive infielder: Yoandry Galan, Manhattan

The best infield arm: Shank, Marist

The best defensive outfielder: John Rooney Siena

The best outfield arm: Ryan Plourde, Fairfield

The best pure hitters: Mike Orefice, Marist; Ryan McCauley, Niagara; Ramon Ortega, Manhattan (right)

The biggest power threats: Ryan Plourde, Fairfield; Ryan McCauley, Niagara; Ramon Ortega, Manhattan

The hitter you least want to face: Ramon Ortega, Manhattan

The toughest hitter to strike out: Zach Shank, Marist

The most underrated hitter: Mike Orefice, Marist

The best baserunner: Nick Camastro, Manhattan

The best game coach: Barry Davis, Rider

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job: Trevor Brown, Fairfield

(photos courtesy of Rider & Manhattan Media Relations)