Feb. 9, 2010

CollegeBaseballInsider.com asked college coaches around the country to preview the 2010 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 Conference (eight out of 12 coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Louisville*

The top three starting pitchers are: Randy Fontanez, USF* (pictured right); Jarryd Summers, West Virginia*; Cole Johnson, Notre Dame

The top closer is: Chris Enourato, West Virginia

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Randy Fontanez, USF

The most underrated pitcher is: Jarryd Summers, West Virginia

The best defensive catcher is: Jeff Arnold, Louisville*

The best catcher arm is: Jeff Arnold, Louisville

The best defensive infielder is: Pierre LePage, Connecticut

The best defensive outfielder is: Josh Richmond, Louisville; and George Springer, Connecticut

The three best pure hitters are: Jedd Gyorko, West Virginia*; Dan DiBartolomeo, West Virginia; George Springer, Connecticut

The three biggest power threats are: George Springer, Connecticut*; Phil Wunderlich, Louisville (pictured right); Andrew Clark, Louisville

The hitter you least want to face is: Jedd Gyorko, West Virginia

The most underrated hitter is: Jonathan Koscso, USF; and Jimmy Parque, St. John’s

The best base-runner is: Tommy Lee, Georgetown; and Matt Szczur, Villanova

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Jim Patterson Stadium, Louisville

The best game coach is: Ed Blankmeyer, St. John’s

The assistant coach most ready for a head-coaching job is: Mike Hampton, St. John’s

*unanimous selection

(photos courtesy of USF and UL Media Relations Offices)