Feb. 13, 2008

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 Sun Belt (seven out of 11 coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Louisiana-Lafayette*

The three top starting pitchers are: Hunter Moody (Louisiana-Lafayette), Danny Farquhar (Louisiana-Lafayette) (pictured right), Mickey Storey (Florida Atlantic)/Buddy Glass (Louisiana-Lafayette) (tie)

The top closer is: Danny Farquhar (Louisiana-Lafayette)

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Danny Farquhar (Louisiana-Lafayette)

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

The best defensive catcher is: Beau Brooks (Troy)/J.B. Paxson (Western Kentucky) (tie)

The best three pure hitters are: Johnny Giavotella (New Orleans), Mike McKenna (Florida Atlantic), David Doss (South Alabama)

The biggest three power threats are: Rawley Bishop (Middle Tennessee)*, William Block (Florida Atlantic), Mike McKenna (Florida Atlantic)/Scott Hawkins (Louisiana-Lafayette) (pictured right)

The hitter you least want to face is: Johnny Giavotella (New Orleans)*

The most underrated hitter is: Daniel Cook (Florida Atlantic)

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Louisiana-Lafayette

*unanimous selection

Preseason coaches' poll

1. Louisiana-Lafayette 121

2. New Orleans 107

3. Troy 94

4. Florida Atlantic 81

5. Middle Tennessee 74

6. South Alabama 69

7. Western Kentucky 56

8. ULM 45

9. Florida International 36

10. Arkansas State 28

11. UALR 15