Feb. 8, 2008

click here for Big East preseason feature

CollegeBaseballInsider.com asked college coaches around the country to preview the 2008 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 Big East (six out of 12 coaches participated).

The team to beat is: St. John’s

The three top starting pitchers are: Scott Barnes (St. John’s)*, Zack Pitts (Louisville), David Phelps (Notre Dame)

The top closer is: Shawn Sanford (USF)

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Zack Pitts (Louisville)

The most underrated pitcher is: B.J. Rosenberg (Louisville)

The best defensive catcher is: Derrick Alfonso (Louisville)

The best three pure hitters are: Tom Edwards (Rutgers), A.J. Pollock (Notre Dame) and Chris Dominguez (Louisville)/Josh Harrison (Cincinnati) tie

The biggest three power threats are: Chris Dominguez (Louisville)* (pictured right), Gil Zayas (St. John’s), Jordon Yost (West Virginia), Tom Edwards (Rutgers)

The hitter you least want to face is: Josh Harrison (Cincinnati)/Tom Edwards (Rutgers)

The most underrated hitter is: No hitter received more than one vote

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Cincinnati/Louisville

*unanimous selection

Preseason Coaches' Poll (from Big East release)

Team                        Points (1^st votes)
1. St. John's               117 (7)
2. Louisville               113 (5)
3. USF                      92

4. Rutgers                  91
5. Notre Dame          80

6. Connecticut           66
7. Pittsburgh              59
8. Villanova               51
9. Cincinnati              41
10. West Virginia      39

11. Seton Hall           31
12. Georgetown        12