Feb. 20, 2008

click here for Big West 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 West (six out of nine coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Long Beach State

The three top starting pitchers are: Scott Gorgen (UCI)* (pictured right), Jeff Kaplan (Cal State Fullerton), Andrew Leibel (Long Beach State)

The top closer is: Bryan Shaw (Long Beach State)

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Scott Gorgen (UCI)

The most underrated pitcher is: Mike Ford (UC Santa Barbara)

The best defensive catcher is: Chris McMurray (UC Santa Barbara)

The best three pure hitters are: Shane Peterson (Long Beach State), Joey Gonzales (UC Riverside), Ollie Linton (UCI)

The biggest three power threats are: Jared Clark (Cal State Fullerton), Wes Dorrell (Cal Poly), Jason Corder (Long Beach State)

The hitter you least want to face is: Shane Peterson (Long Beach State)

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

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Cal State Fullerton

*unanimous selection