Feb. 2, 2009

click here for coaches' CAA preseason poll

click here for coaches' preseason All-CAA team

CollegeBaseballInsider.com asked college coaches around the country to preview the 2009 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 Colonial Athletic Association (nine out of 11 coaches participated).

The team to beat is: James Madison

The top three starting pitchers are: Turner Phelps, James Madison; Daniel Cropper, UNC Wilmington; Robinson Polanco, Georgia State

The top closer is: Jordan Flasher, George Mason

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Turner Phelps, James Madison (pictured left)

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

The best defensive catcher is: Chris Henderson, George Mason; and Edgar Hernandez, Old Dominion

The best catcher arm is: Chris Henderson, George Mason; and Edgar Hernandez, Old Dominion

The best defensive infielder is: Nick Natoli, Towson

The best defensive outfielder is: Alex Foltz, James Madison (pictured right)

The three best pure hitters are: Mike Tamsin, Northeastern; Matt Prokopowicz, Hofstra; Bradley Logan, Georgia State

The three biggest power threats are: Scott Krieger, George Mason; Justin Bour, George Mason; Frank Pesanello, Northeastern

The hitter you least want to face is: Scott Krieger, George Mason

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

The best base-runner is: Gerard Hall, Old Dominion

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Brooks Field, UNC Wilmington

The best game coach is: Mark Scalf, UNC Wilmington

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Randy Hood, UNC Wilmington

(photos courtesy of JMU Media Relations Office)