1 Arkansas
2 California
3 TCU
4 Central Connecticut State
Last year’s national runner-up did big things again this year and is hosting for the third straight year. The Hogs have the makings of a team that is poised to get back to Omaha. Isaiah Campbell (10-1, 2.37, 100 K, 95 IP) is electric, and Arkansas has a mix of speed and power in the lineup again – Heston Kjserstad (.329/14/44) is one of several to watch. Andrew Vaughn (.387/15/49 and 58 BB) is on another planet, but Cameron Eden (.365/8/34) and Korey Lee (.340/14/56) give the Bears an impressive three-headed monster. Jared Horn (6-1, 1.82) has been filthy on the mound. TCU was the most controversial at-large selection this year, but the Frogs can beat anyone when Nick Lodolo (6-5, 2.48, 125 K in 98 IP) is hopping. Central Connecticut State is in tune when Dave Matthews (.297/6/38 and 17 2B) is rocking.
Sean – Can’t wait for the Lodolo/Horn matchup if it transpires. Arkansas is the pick here, but California is going to make it very interesting.
Phil: Casey Martin and Arkansas take advantage of home field to get past Cal & TCU.