Feb. 11, 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 Atlantic Sun (six out of 12 coaches participated).

The team to beat is: Stetson

The three top starting pitchers are: Rex Brothers (Lipscomb), Kyle Heckathorn (Kennesaw State), Matt Dobbins (Jacksonville)/Brandon Langston (East Tennessee State) (tie)

The top closer is: Robbie Elsemiller (Stetson)*

The one pitcher you don’t want to face is: Rex Brothers (Lipscomb)/Kyle Heckathorn (Kennesaw State) (tie)

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

The best defensive catcher is: Caleb Joseph (Lipscomb)

The best three pure hitters are: Justin Bass (Stetson), Caleb Joseph (Lipscomb), Jacob Robbins (Kennesaw State)

The biggest three power threats are: Derek Wiley (Belmont), Mike Armstrong (Mercer) (pictured right), Caleb Joseph (Lipscomb)

The hitter you least want to face is: Caleb Joseph (Lipscomb)

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

Your favorite road stadium to visit is: Stetson*

*unanimous selection

Preseason Coaches' Poll

1. Stetson 127

2. Kennesaw State 118

3. Jacksonville 115

4. Mercer 113

5. Lipscomb 103

6. North Florida 82

7. Belmont 73

8. East Tennessee State 65

9. Gardner-Webb 48

10. Florida Gulf Coast 36

11. Campbell 30

12. USC Upstate 16