The College Baseball Today Top 298 Power Ranking.

Top 25? Top 40? Pshaw! As I’ve told you guys before, it doesn’t make sense to just rank the Top 25, 40 or 100 teams and leave out the other couple hundred teams. Like putting wine spritzer in my hand, it goes against my nature. So since the season will be here quicker than you can say Trea Turner just stole 2nd base, I thought I’d give you a lay of the land for the 2013 season and rank from good to bad, pretty to ugly, nuts to soup, the 1-through-298 teams in all-inclusive order.

Welcome to the 2013 season everyone. Dig your cleats in. Get a grip. Then let ‘er rip.

(By the way, don’t tell anyone… but the 1-thru-25 write-ups are as they will appear in my Athlon’s Top 25 preview. That’s why those write-ups are longer than the rest.)

1- NORTH CAROLINA (46-26 in 2012)

The talent is always there, but this time the Tarheels will get the breaks too. Coach Mike Fox has lots of star power in his roster, including All Americans in beast-like 3B Colin Moran (.365-3-35) and Friday ace Kent Emanuel (8-4, 1.96), who is part of a fully-intact weekend rotation. The No. 8-ranked recruiting class will keep things rolling, led by aptly-named OF Skye Bolt.

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2- OREGON STATE (40-20)

The term “embarrassment of riches” best describes the Beavers pitching corps. LHP Jace Fry (5-3, 2.45), LHP Ben Wetzler (8-2, 3.10) and RHP Dan Child (6-4, 2.95) combined for 45 starts and relievers Matt Boyd (4-0, 3.41) and Tony Bryant (6-2, 3.82, 9saves) have All American potential. Sophomore Michael Conforto hit .349-13-76 as a freshman, leads seven returning field starters, four of which hit .300+.

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3- VANDERBILT (35-28)

Only Vandy can boast having 18 MLB draftees on its roster. Wow. Plus, there’s still 2011 CWS holdovers in 2B Tony Kemp (.261, 26SBs), OF Mike Yastrzemski (.286, 15SBs) and 1B Conrad Gregor (.328, 11SBs). Pitchers Tyler Beede (1-5, 4.52), Kevin Ziomek (5-6, 5.22) and T.J. Pecoraro (2-4, 3.40) should improve their numbers and the No. 1 ranked recruiting class will fill in the blanks.

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4- ARKANSAS (46-22)

All you have to do is look at the numbers that potential All American righties Ryne Stanek (8-4, 2.82), Colby Suggs (7-1, 1.38) and Barrett Astin (3-5, 1.99, 11saves) posted and know the Hogs could be dominant. Add in frosh RHP Colin Poche, a 5th-round draft pick last June. But offensively that .271 team average must improve and will lean on SS Dominic Ficcocielo (.290-6-41).

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5- NORTH CAROLINA STATE (43-20)

The high-ceiling talent of RHP Carlos Rodon (9-0, 1.57), C/OF Brett Austin (.284, 17doubles) and 3B Trea Turner (.336-5-43, D1-best 57SBs), all sophomores, could have this program Omaha-bound soon. Ten of the 11 pitchers used last year come back, including senior weekend starters Ethan Ogburn (5-4, 3.38) and Anthony Tzamtzis (5-5, 4.38). Combative head coach Elliott Avent will have the best team of his tenure.

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6- UCLA (48-16)

Like 2011, when the Bruins were pitching-heavy with Trevor Bauer and Gerrit Cole, the Bruins are well-armed here with Friday ace Adam Plutko (12-3, 2.48), Saturday stud Nick Vander Tuig (10-4, 4.43) and closer extraordinaire David Berg (5-3, 1.46, 50 appearances). All four infielders return, led by 2B Kevin Williams (.302) and SS Pat Valaika (.266), and the incoming freshman class was ranked 2nd nationally.

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7- STANFORD (41-18)

The Cardinal got a pleasant surprise when first round draftee Mark Appel (10-2, 2.56) didn’t sign with the Pirates, assuring Stanford of another stout pitching corps. Monstrous Austin Wilson (.285-10-54), stealth Brian Ragira (.329-6-50) and smooth SS Lonnie Kappula (.280), all return. Also keep an eye on freshman All American 3B Alex Blandino, who hit .296 with eight home runs in 29 starts last season.

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8- TCU (40-22)

Frogs finally get their wish to play in the Big 12 and they’re loaded for the challenge. Plenty of young talent abounds as sophomores like 1B Kevin Cron (.338-6-34), RHP Preston Morrison (9-2, 2.08), 2B Derek Odell (.276-4-26) and OF Jerrick Suiter (.310) can play with anyone in the country. Weekend mound starters Morrison, Stefan Crichton (9-2, 3.41) and Andrew Mitchell (5-3, 3.74) return intact.

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9- LSU (47-18)

You going to let losing to Stony Brook last June in the Super Regionals sway you? Pshaw! The Tigers will be fine with new ace Aaron Nola (7-4, 3.61) and eight other pitchers with 25+ innings coming back. And get this, national batting leader Raph Rhymes (.431) and the top returning SEC home run hitter, Mason Katz, (.320-13-52) also return to haunt the conference. Yikes.

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10- KENTUCKY (45-18)

The Wildcat coaching staff thinks they’ve got a national contender on their hands for 2013. Not a lot to argue about as 15 former MLB draftees dot the roster. Two big difference-makers are CF Austin Cousino (.316-9-38) and dual-threat LHP/1B A.J. Reed, an intimidator at the dish or on the mound. RHP Trevor Gott tossed a UK record 17 saves and will lock down Ws.

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11- FLORIDA STATE (50-17)

Let’s quit doubting the Seminoles, especially since last year’s “rebuilding season” ended in Omaha. Freshmen LHP Brandon Leibrandt (8-3, 2.82) and RHP Mike Compton (12-2, 2.87) were big factors, senior Scott Sitz (4-3, 3.72) rejoins the rotation and six of the top eight relievers return. But the offense was decimated as OF Josh Delph’s .267 and SS Justin Gonzalez’s .256 are the best returning averages.

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12- SOUTH CAROLINA (49-20)

For those looking for abject failure since Roth, Price, Walker, Marzilli and coach Tanner all moved on, prepare to be disappointed. There’s lots of talent still at hand. Sophomores Tanner English (.298), SS Joey Pankake (.264), C Grayson Greiner (.222-6-32), LHP Jordan Montgomery (6-1, 3.62) and RHP Evan Beal (4-4, 3.81, 5saves) are all primed for big things, as is the 10th ranked recruiting class.

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13- OREGON (46-19)

The George Horton Factor is beginning to take full effect as the Ducks narrowly missed a trip to Omaha in 2012. Seven starters and six of the top eight pitchers return from the best fielding and pitching team in the conference. Eight game winners Jake Reed and Jeff Gold have All Pac 12 ability and reliever Jimmy Sherfy (5-3, 2.20) saved 19 games last year.

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14- ARIZONA (48-17)

The national champs return seven of the top eight pitchers from 2012 including Konner Wade (11-3, 3.96), James Farris (7-3, 3.97) and also Frosh hammer Mathew Troupe (6-1, 3.47, 6 saves), who closed down the title game in Omaha. But six of the top seven sticks are gone so OF Johnny Field (.370) and C Riley Moore (.301) will have to step into leadership roles.

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15- LOUISVILLE (41-22)

A disappointing 10-9 finish should light a fire under these guys for 2013, especially with a chock-full cupboard. RHPs Jeff Thompson (9-4, 4.40) and Jared Ruxer (8-3, 3.38) are big time, as is 100mph hurler Nick Burdi (1-2, 5.56), who could be a difference-maker. Eight of nine starters return to the order, led by sonic speedsters Adam Engel (.307, 37SBs) and Ty Young (.344, 15SBs).

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16- COASTAL CAROLINA (42-19)

The new perennial mid-major monsters, Gary Gilmore always has his Chanticleers ready to knock off the big boys. Most of the nation’s third-best pitching staff returns led by 17-game starter Tyler Herb (9-2, 2.98) and a pair of intriguing seniors in Aaron Burke and Ryan Connelly, who had 70 appearances, 15 wins, 18 saves but no starts between them. CCU stole 115 bases last year.

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17- CAL STATE FULLERTON (36-21)

Last year, the Titans had almost no pitching back, yet still finished with a stellar 3.18 team ERA using mostly freshmen. This year, All American dual threat Michael Lorenzen (.297/2-0, 1.23, 16saves) leads a potentially intimidating 3-through-5 murderers row with J.D. Davis (.229) and Carlos Lopez (.317). Defense is always a Titan staple and will feature SS Richy Pedroza (.324) and 3B Matt Chapman (.286).

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18- SAN DIEGO (40-17)

Rich Hill’s 2013 Toreros will go as far as his three-pronged triton of stars take him in RHP Michael Wagner (19 saves), 3B Kris Bryant (best power hitter in D1) and RHP Dylan Covey (former 1st round draftee). The remainder of the pitching staff will be young but seven field starters return, including Bryant’s partners in crime Louie Lechich (.311) and catcher Dillon Haupt (.280-5-31).

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19- ARIZONA STATE (36-20)

The dark skies have parted. Devils baseball is free from sanctions. Opponents have been warned. Coach Tim Esmay will have the battery of Team USA member Trevor Williams (12-2, 2.05) and C Max Rossiter (.326), plus six incoming frosh were MLB draftees including Canadian LHP Ryan Kellogg (11th round) and LHP Brett Lilek (37th round), who threw the best of any pitcher in fall camp.

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20- GEORGIA TECH (38-26)

The Tech campus must have some kind of centrifugal force to it because three MLB draftees turned down big pro money in RHP Buck Farmer (8-4, 3.54, 115Ks), OF Kyle Wren (.256, 16SBs) and OF Brandon Thomas (.350-5-44), who was a 4th round pick. All three weekend starting pitchers return as do seven field starters, including C/RHP Zane Evans, who had seven saves in relief.

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21- UC IRVINE (31-25)

If the injury-riddled Anteaters stay healthy, this could be a Top 10 team. Not kidding. Opponents hit just .235 against 2012′s patchwork staff, which gets Matt Whitehouse (4-0, 2.12 in 2011) back, along with RHP Andrew Thurman (8-3, 2.66) and RHP Kyle Hooper (3-1, 1.50). 3B Taylor Sparks (.202) needs to reach his high-round potential and newcomer Dominique Taylor is an absolute blur in centerfield.

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22- FLORIDA (47-20)

Possibly the most interesting team to keep an eye on, the Gators were ravaged by the draft, losing a ton of MLB talent. But this program is used to reloading. RHPs Jonathan Crawford (6-1, 3.13) and Karsten Whitson (4-0, 3.51) are in their draft-eligible years and will be building blocks for the staff. Three-fourths of the infield is back, led by 2B Casey Turgeon (.281-4-30).

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23- RICE (41-19)

Yep, we’re not used to seeing the Owls this far from the top 10, so there’s lots of work ahead. For now coach Wayne Graham leans on just three returning fielders in 2B Christian Stringer (.343), SS Ford Stainback (.289) and 3B Shane Hoelscher (.244-4-30). RHP Austin Kubitza (6-5, 2.69) has All America potential and incoming 27th round draftee RHP Kevin McCanna to back him.

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24- NEW MEXICO (37-24)

Energetic head coach Ray Birmingham has a trio of legit All American candidates in 3B D.J. Peterson (.419-17-78), who finished fifth nationally in hitting, OF Ryan Padilla (.353-5-49), a freshman All American, and C Mitchell Garver (.377-10-57), a Johnny Bench Award finalist. RHP Josh Walker (8-4, 4.19) leads a re-worked pitching staff which will feature some stout JC transfers, headed by mid-90s hurler Tyler Spencer.

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25- UCF (45-17)

Coach Terry Rooney has built a monster next to DisneyWorld as the Knights continue to climb. Staff horse Ben Lively (9-2, 3.00) has a brigade of lefties with him including starters Chris Matulis (7-0, 3.68) and Brian Adkins (3-6, 4.78). Though big sticks D.J. Hicks and Ronnie Richardson are gone, senior Chris Taladay (.298-5-49) and OF Eric Hempe (.307-7-31 in 2011) are good building blocks.

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26- TEXAS (30-22)

The Longhorns are snortin’ fire after missing the post-season last year. A stocked pitching corps and four incoming MLB draftees, led by SS C.J. Hinojosa, will make sure there’s no repeat. Plus, OF Cohl Walla, a frosh All American in 2010, returns after missing last season.

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27- MISSISSIPPI (37-26)

Rebel fans don’t cotton to 4th place West Division finishes and 26-loss seasons. But All American Bobby Wahl (7-4, 104Ks), who pitched for Team USA, and experienced battle-axes like OF Tanner Mathis (.359) and C Will Allen (.302) will make that a distant memory.

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28- GONZAGA (34-22)

1B/LHP Marco Gonzales may be the best two-way player in the country and he’ll have a pair of draft dodgers to torment opponents with in incoming flinger Andrew Sopko, a 14th round pick, and LHP Tyler Olson, who returns for his senior year after being selected in the 17th round.

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29- CAL POLY (36-20)

While quietly grinding away in anonymity in the central California coast, coach Larry Lee could have his best team with a ton of experience. Seven of the team’s nine pitchers come back including potential dominators in Joey Wagman (9-3, 2.33) and Reed Reilly (5-2, 2.80).

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30- MISSOURI STATE (33-23)

Beware of Bear attacks. It starts with Nick Petree (10-4, 1.01) on Fridays and Tyler Burgess (11svs) in the late innings. Also, SS Travis McComack is back after he missed all of last year, and incoming CF Tate Metheny, a 23rd round pick of the Cardinals, will be a huge addition.

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31- VIRGINIA (39-19)

The Cavaliers will rely on more youth than usual this season but it says a lot about Brian O’Connor’s program when a rebuilding year still sees them ranked this high. Derek Fisher (.309-7-50) and Colin Harrington (.312) are athletic OFs with a knack for making the big play.

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32- PEPPERDINE (36-23)

Ahhhh, Eddy D. Field Stadium… dreamy. But trips to Texas A&M, Baylor and Oklahoma will test the mettle of this team’s youth. Coach Steve Rodriguez has to hope Aaron Brown starts to live up to his lofty expectations. The pitching and defense are set otherwise.

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33- MIAMI (36-23)

The Canes must shake the nightmarish Regional which saw their season end with blowout losses on their home field to Stony Brook and Missouri State. The U needs to find a difference-maker or two on the roster before we can say they’re officially “back” on the national map.

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34- OKLAHOMA (42-25)

Not a ton of returning starters, but with All Americans like LHP Dillon Overton (6-3, 3.15), RHP Jonathan Gray (8-4, 3.16) and OF Max White (.337), OU just needs a few Chip Glass-like role players to fill in the cracks. LHP Billy Waltrip, a 12th round draftee, will be a stud as well

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35- UNC-WILMINGTON (39-23)

Not only do the Seahawks have the potential to make a helluva lotta noise nationally, they also have a few of the best All-Name Team guys in the country with LHP Mat Batts (6-5, 3.04, 90Ks), RHP Blaze Tart (2-0, 3.25, 5svs in 2011) and Freshman All American DH Corey Dick (.302-8-35)

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36- NEW MEXICO STATE (35-24)

Offensively, look for State to lead the nation in walks again after having coerced 347 last year. Four senior hurlers, Ryan Beck (113Ks), Adam Mott (94Ks), Casey Collins (4-4, 5.22) and Michael Ormseth (8-2) accounted for 52 starts a year ago for the now pitching-rich Ags.

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37- NEBRASKA (35-23)

Year two of the Darin Erstad era should go much smoother with the entire infield (and its .974 defense) and nine of the top 11 pitchers used last year all returning. Sure, sure, you can bitch about the torturous schedule now, but when the dust settles, it’ll help NU in the RPI come May.

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38- CAL STATE BAKERSFIELD (25-30)

Coach Bill Kernen really digs this 2013 squad. They’ll be pitching-rich with three weekend starters back, plus phenom LHP Jonathan Montoya (went 8-5 in 2011) and Chuck Buchanan(JC All American), both returning after missing 2012 and will bolster a deep, versatile staff.

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39- MISSISSIPPI STATE (40-24)

Never count out the chest-thumping ire of John Cohen and his teams. Even though they’ll be without mound studs like Chris Stratton, Caleb Reed and Nick Routt, six position returnees and a defense that turned 71 double plays will make this “rebuilding” season a positive one.

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40- DALLAS BAPTIST (41-19)

OF Boomer Collins (.374-13-58) and block of granite catcher Duncan McAlpine (.270-9-42) provide the thunder at the dish while RHPs Cy Sneed (8-5, 4.45), Michael Smith (4-1, 3.51, 6svs) and Jake Johansen (27th round draft pick) supply the lightning from the hill. DBU is set.

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41- TEXAS A&M (43-18)

The good news? A&M is SEC bound. The bad news: There’s no Johnny Manziel on the diamond. There’s also no Michael Wacha, John Stilson and Ross Stripling around either. But the Ags do have RHPs Rafael Pineda (5-1, 2.71) and Kyle Martin (6-5, 3.20, 7svs) to help out.

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42- WASHINGTON STATE (28-28)

Coach Donnie Marbut told me a year ago that THIS was the year he was looking forward to. Every weekend starter returns on the hill. FYI, the hometowns for those three are Rapid City, South Dakota (Tanner Chleborad), Buhl, Idaho (J.D. Leckenby) and Kalispiel, Montana (Joe Pistorese).

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43- SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA (39-21)

Ack! The low-40s is precarious spot for mid-majors. One bad weekend and they’re off the radar in at-large-land. Though there is a lot of talent returning, SLU will have to find a replacement for 20-game saves leader Stefan Lopez. The best defense in the Southland will help.

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44- CLEMSON (35-28)

It’s hard not to be a fan of head coach Jack Leggett, but this will be one of his lesser-experienced squads. But Kevin Pohle (7-4, 3.66) and former 16th round draft pick Daniel Gosset should form a good one-two punch on the hill each weekend.

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45- CALIFORNIA (29-25)

The Bears could finish much higher than this, mainly ‘coz there are still some remnants from that magic 2011 CWS squad, including mound starters Justin Jones (4-9, 4.57) and Kyle Porter (2-1, 5.75). Also, 1B Devon Rodriguez, a vocal leader, returns after sitting out last year.

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46- KENT STATE (47-20)

The Flashes proved to everyone that a Northern team could make it to Omaha, mid-major or not. Bitchin’ job guys! Ace Tyler Skulina (11-3) and top bats like George Roberts (.364-8-66), OF Evan Campbell (.312-7-40) will help KSU not skip a beat. Is there another rabbit in the hat?

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47- SAM HOUSTON STATE (40-22)

Speaking of strong mid-majors, the Bearkats are as tough as it gets for the big boys. Ace lefties Caleb Smith (8-6, 3.23) and Cody Dickson (4-5, 3.25) are lock-down arms, but there’s not much returning behind them. Seven field starters return and will keep The Sam in the post-season.

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48- BAYLOR (49-17)

Not sure what the Bears are left stinging over more, that painful Super Regional loss to Arkansas? Or the fact that there is very little pitching returning? Either way, the Bears will be fine and still have some studs, like 3B Cal Towey (.295, 17SBs) and Nathan Orf (.303, 17SBs).

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49- WASHINGTON (30-25)

Put the Huskies in any other conference and they’d play for the league crown. But that’s the Pac 12 for ya’. The team ERA of 3.62 should get even better with six of the top eight pitchers returning, including bullpenners Josh Fredendall (9svs) and Tyler Kane (7-2, 2.19).

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50- WAKE FOREST (33-24)

The Deacons will be speed Demons on the basepaths with SS Pat Blair (22SBs), CF Evan Stephens (13SBs) and 2B Conor Keniry (11SBs) supplying speed to burn. Also can’t wait to see how kidney transplantee Kevin Jordan does after his long road of recovery.

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51- INDIANA (32-28)

IU’s long road to recover has been painfully long, but the Hoosiers have a roster-full of experience, including LHP Joey DeNato (7-3, 3.22) and 1B slugger Sam Travis (.319-9-50), the Big 10 Freshman of the Year. Watch for incoming two-way star Will Coursen-Carr.

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52- UC SANTA BARBARA (28-28)

Second-year coach Andrew Checketts has things turned around in this surf-side town. This could be the year the Gauchos cash in on the Big Dance if Oregon transfer 1B Tyler Kuresa and a huge recruiting class that was ranked No. 18 by Collegiate Baseball come through.

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53- TULANE (38-20)

The Greenies have fought the injury bug, but if they stay M*A*S*H free the 2013 could be a breakthrough. 1B Sean Potkay (.313-5-30), SS Brennan Middleton (.357, 14SBs) and 3B Garrett Cannizaro (.305-4-42) will keep the 11th-best defense in the country stout again.

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54- NEVADA (32-25)

Don’t be shocked to see the Wolves up this high. Very quietly, UNR won the WAC title last year and return most of that team as they traverse to the Mountain West for 2013. Seven field starters and all three weekend mound starters come back. Coach Gary Powers… let ‘er rip!

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55- WICHITA STATE (35-25)

Ouchie! The Wheatshockers haven’t been to the Big Dance since 2009. Dammit! The good news is that Mean Gene Stephenson has a lot of pitching back this year, including Cale Elam (9svs), who could move to the Friday role. LHP Kris Gardner (5-2, 2.66) and A.J. Ladwig (4-1, 3.14) will contribute.

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56- FRESNO STATE (31-28)

The Bulldogs move to the MWC and will be dubbed the most rabid fan base right away. College home run derby champion Aaron Judge (.308-4-27) and C Austin Wynns(.284) lead the offense while Friday ace Tyler Linehan (4-5, 3.58) needs to reach his lock-down potential.

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57- BELMONT (39-24)

A-ha! Let’s see how well the A-Sun’s best team does in the Ohio Valley as the Bruins make their migration this year. The left-handed brigade of James Buckelew (7-1, 2.45), Chase Brookshire (8-4, 2.45) and Dan Ludwig (5-5, 3.49) will lead the arms staff.

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58- GEORGIA (31-26)

The SEC is harsh on rebuilding projects, especially with the loss of 2nd round pick Alex Wood and fellow ace Michael Pallazone from the arms brigade. But the incoming recruiting class was ranked No. 3 in the nation. So look for UGa to make bigger strides in the years ahead.

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59- WESTERN CAROLINA (32-24)

It’s nearly all hands on deck for the Catamounts in 2013, but they’ll have to overcome that terrible 7-13 finish from last year. Six .300+ hitters come back from a team that led the SoCon with a .310 team average.

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60- LOYOLA MARYMOUNT (27-27)

When I once asked coach Jason Gill what it would take for LMU to get to Omaha, he said, “Uhhh… a miracle?” Well the Lions have 2nd-year weekenders Trevor Megill (5-8, 3.57) and Colin Welmon (7-4, 3.87) back, along with seven starters. Do you believe in miracles?

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61- STONY BROOK (52-15)

Forget Anne Sullivan. Coach Matt Senk is the REAL miracle worker here. Though there were some big losses, five starters return as do aces Brandon McNitt (8-4, 2.76) and Frankie Vanderka (3-3, 2.33). The biggest thing this team has is confidence oozing from its pores.

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62- OHIO STATE (33-27)

The Bucks are uber-experienced with six redshirt seniors that play heavy roles. They also have Josh Dezse, who hit .306 and collected seven saves on the hill. Coach Greg Beals could reach great heights in year three.

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63- PURDUE (45-14)

As you may know, it’s hard for Big 10ers to maintain high-level success. The Boilermakers return only two field starters and one weekend pitcher. But former Brewers draftee Brad Schreiber and highly-regarded LHP Kyle Wood both return after sitting out last season.

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64- ELON (33-26)

A pair of Cape Cod League All Stars return in LHP Dylan Clark (9-4, 3.76) and David Whitehead (5-3, 4.44), as they are part of a nine-man rotation that comes back in full. But the boney-armed .263 offense will have to step up big time.

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65- ILLINOIS STATE (33-19)

That banner recruiting class from last year is entering its sophomore year and the Redbirds also will host the MVC tournament in May. As if having all three weekend starters back on the mound and six fielders coming back wasn’t enough.

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66- SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI (32-24)

Admittedly, this could be a woefully-low ranking for USM. It all depends on how that freshman class from last year performs. Two-way threat Mason Robbins (.330/1-0, 4.01) will help. But the first three weekends of C-USA play has them facing Rice, UCF and Tulane.

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67- VIRGINIA TECH (34-21)

Even in a “down” year the Hokies managed to win 30+ games for the fourth straight season. Tyler Horan (15HRs) and Andrew Rash (7HRs) have participated in the College Home Run Derby the last two summers at TD Ameritrade Park.

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68- UC RIVERSIDE (22-32)

Lots of contributors come back and the Highlanders could be a huge darkhorse in the Big West and nationally. But the .260 team batting average must improve and the rally-killing stat where they hit into 61 double plays must shrink.

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69- EAST CAROLINA (36-24)

Some late unrest has caused questions about ECU’s 2013 season, especially the suspension of saves maestro Tanner Merritt and the season-ending injury to returning wins leader Tyler Joyner. But coach Billy Godwin still has talent in abundance. They’ll be fine.

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70- SACRAMENTO STATE (31-28)

In the newfangled WAC, don’t be surprised if the Hornets pull some surprises and contend down to the last weekend. WAC Player of the Year Andrew Ayers (.336-3-31) will lead an experienced squad.

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71- MERCER (38-21)

This should be the best Bears squad since the 2010 A-Sun champs went Big Dancing. The Two Davids will lead the staff in David Randall (4-4, 2.51) and David Teasley (7-1, 2.20, 5svs) as Bears staff finished second in the A-Sun with a 3.32 ERA and 448Ks.

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72- LONG BEACH STATE (28-27)

The Beach finally got back to contending status last year, pushing Fullerton down to the last out in Big West play. Gobs of talent back this year too, but as usual with the Dirtbags, the schedule is a Lee Marvin-tough (Google it, young people) and will keep the win total in check.

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73- APPALACHIAN STATE (41-18)

They lost head coach Chris Pollard to Duke and pitchers Ryan Arrowood, Seth Grant and saves man Nathan Hyatt. But the Mountaineers won’t go away. They’ll be led by double play/base-stealing combo of SS Will Callaway (.320, 23SBs) and 2B Hector Crespo (.308, 30SBs).

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74- AUBURN (31-28)

The Plainsmen had the best offense in the SEC and return the top four hitters from that squad. OF Ryan Tella (.360-5-34) and his 17SBs are what gets the pot stirring. But lots of losses on the mound will still be the bugaboo.

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75- ST. LOUIS (41-18)

Not only did the Billikens win the Atlantic 10 last year but they also return the lions share of that team. All three weekend starters on the mound and all four infield position starters return, although Grant Nelson (.314) may switch from 3B to C.

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76- OKLAHOMA STATE (32-25)

Year of transition for the Pokes. Frank Anderson moved on and former Cowboy Josh Holliday takes over after serving as assistant coach at Arizona State and Vanderbilt of late. Only three pitchers from last year return, so look for new arms, like JC transfer Mark Robinette, to help out.

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77- HAWAII (30-25)

UofH moves to the Big West for baseball, but may have picked a tough year to do so (well… not like they had a choice). Only 240 of last year’s 490 innings of work on the mound return this year. But they will have an ace in LHP Jarrett Arakawa (7-6, 2.88).

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78- COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON (38-22)

Coach Monte Lee’s last four win totals at CofC have been 35, 44, 39 and 38 wins. His teams have finished in the Top 5 of home runs in each of those seasons too. They’ll miss the power of Daniel Aldrich and Marty Gantt, but OF Brandon Murray (.330, 12HRs) takes that baton now.

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79- ST. JOHN’S (40-23)

Heavy losses in the pitching staff means its unlikely the Red Storm storms its way to another Super Regional appearance, but we’ve second-guessed these guys before. LHP Sean Hagan (8-3, 2.90) and incoming 35th round draft pick RHP Michael Sheppard will pick up the pieces.

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80- KENNESAW STATE (34-25)

The Owls are one year older and one year wiser. That gives hope to turning around that 5-12 mark in one-run games last year. Five pitchers with sub-4.00 ERAs return, plus RHP Travis Dean (4-1, 5.60) comes back despite getting selected in the 22nd round of the June draft.

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81- WESTERN KENTUCKY (25-33)

Nearly the entire team is back for 2013, and they’re ready to make amends. Pitching and defense will be strong. Tanner Perkins, a 2nd team All Sun Belter in 2011, comes back after missing most of last year. But that 98-pound weakling offense hit an SBC-worst .251. Tsk tsp.

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82- SAN DIEGO STATE (26-34)

Like WKU above, seven starters, all three weekend pitchers and a full bullpen return for the Aztecs too. If you get the chance, check out RHP Michael Cederoth, who throws nearly triple digits on the Jugs Gun.

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83- MARYLAND (32-24)

New coach John Szefc is no stranger to success, having taken Marist to four NCAA tournaments when he was there. Top prospect K.J. Hockaday will man the hot corner again and LHP Jimmy Reed returns after turning down the pros as a 21st round pick.

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84- EVANSVILLE (32-27)

Look for a return to contention for the Aces. Coach Wes Carroll has a lot to work with, including wins-leader Ryan Billo (8-2, 2.25) and saves leader Josh Biggs (4-3, 3.72, 6svs). But replacing the top-of-the-order leader and steady SS Eric Stamets will be Job One.

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85- TROY (28-30)

Talk about a program not used to losing records. Yikes.  But the Trojans have the horses to right that ship immediately. Seven starters are back and most of the pitching. Plus, LHPs Shane McCain (2-2, 4.30) and Ryan Sorce (5-5, 5.57) both return after missing 2012.

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86- INDIANA STATE (41-19)

After taking the Missouri Valley by storm last year, it could be a short fall back to the pack in 2013 for the Sycamores. But Fridays are near instant-Ws with LHP Sean Manaea (5-3, 3.34), after being named the top pro prospect in the prestigious Cape Cod League last summer.

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87- NOTRE DAME (31-27)

Irish are starting to show signs of life in getting back to prominence. Dan Slania (3-0, 13svs) could be one of the best closers in the country and he’ll back starters Sean Fitzgerals (7-3, 3.82) and Adam Norton (5-5, 4.32). 3B Eric Jagielo and 1B Trey Mancini combined for 25HRs.

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88- MISSOURI (33-28)

Ugh! It’s going to get a little worse before it gets better for Tim Jamieson and Co. The move to the SEC is pretty ill-timed as Mizzou loses two of three starting pitchers and three-fourths of the infield. Tigers will apparently also lose RHP Eric Anderson for ’13 due to Tommy John surgery.

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89- FLORIDA ATLANTIC (32-22)

FAU was sitting in the mid-20s of the RPI on Tax Day last year, but dipped to a 9-10 mark the rest of the way. All the pieces are there for a big bounce back, but the back end of the bullpen suffered big losses, including R.J. Alvarez, who was 5-0, 0.72 with eight saves.

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90- GEORGIA SOUTHERN (33-27)

These guys have had to live with that 10-inning loss to Samford in the SoCon title game for eight months now. Plus, the 33 wins was this program’s lowest since 1999. C Chase Griffin (.320-10-42) and T.D. Davis (.308-6-34) lead the newest group of bash brothers.

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91- ORAL ROBERTS (38-25)

Finally! The Eagles migrate to a conference with some challenge to it, going from the Summit League to the Southland. Longtime assistant Ryan Folmar takes the reigns and has a treasure trove of pitching to use with all three weekend starters and three key relievers coming back.

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92- LIBERTY (41-19)

Last year, the Flames entered the season nearly barren in the pitching cupboard, yet still won 41 games. Well, same goes for this year as all three weekend posts need filling. But coach Jim Toman has worked his magic time and again in Falwell-land, so they’ll be stout as usual.

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93- LOUISIANA TECH (27-28)

Once again, going on the road proved to be an achilles heel for the Dogs, as they went 8-18 away from Ruston. Eleven players who made 20 or more starts come back for 2013, so experience won’t be a problem. RHP Phil Maton (8-5, 2.93) leads a well-stocked arms corps.

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94- TEXAS STATE (32-24)

Probably a little lower down the rung than you were expecting, right? Well this could be very temporary, especially if 2011 stud Mitchell Pitts (6-3, 3.66) returns to form after missing last season. But offensively, the top returning hitter – Mrogan Micken – hit just .255. Egad.

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95- SANTA CLARA (25-28)

Year two of the Dan O’Brien era should be much smoother. The Broncos started well but ran out of gas with their youth last season. But they are pitching-heavy now and the defense was the best in the WCC with SS Greg Harisis (.398) and 3B Kyle DeMerritt (.231) leading the way.

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96- USC-UPSTATE (33-20)

The Spartans went from 19 wins in 2011 to last year’s 33Ws, but were left with a 4-8 month of May that soured their season. Returning Atlantic Sun Player of the Year Gaither Bumgardner (.376) will pace the offense and saves specialist Chad Sobotka (3-0, 12svs) will secure the wins.

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97- PENN STATE (29-27)

Very quietly, the Nittany Lions finished with 15 Big 10 wins and in 3rd place in the standings. All three weekend starters return as do six fielders. So we’ll see what PSU can do with some bigger expectations saddled on them.

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98- HOFSTRA (34-22)

Even though fellow Long Islanders Stony Brook got all the attention, the Pride also had a banner 2012 season, going from 15 wins in 2011 to 34-wins, stopping a six-year span of losing records. And get this, nearly everyone is back again this year off a team that hit .334.

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99- SAN FRANCISCO (29-30)

“The AB Express” will help offset losing Friday ace Kyle Zimmer, as Abe Bobb (8-4, 2.18) and Alex Balog (4-4, 3.43) should keep the pitching staff taut. OF Justin Maffei (315, 24SBs) is one of the better tablesetters in the West, but will need new blood to help fill some lineup holes.

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100- UTAH VALLEY (47-12)

No Goose, no magic? The Valley will have to trudge on without Goose Kallunki. But another 40-win season isn’t out of the question, especially with speed merchants like SS Kai Hatch (.342, 12SBs) and OF Sean Moysh (.338, 15SBs) still burning the basepaths.

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101- CREIGHTON (28-30)

Ahhhh, my Bluejays. Last place in the MVC but went all the way to the L.A. Regional title round. Coach Ed Servais said his team finally “got it” in the last few weeks of the season, so let’s hope they do that earlier this year. Jays are always great on D and have six field starters back.

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102- ILLINOIS (28-25)

The Parr Boys, Jordan hit .348-5-45 & Justin hit .290-3-38, lead an offense that had more triples (20) than home runs (18). RHP Kevin Johnson (7-5, 3.97) was a 31st round draft pick.

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103- CONNECTICUT (31-27)

The rebuilding season is done, time to get back to playing for titles. Lots of speed returns in L.J. Mazzilli (.339-9-38, 16SBs), Billy Ferriter (.319, 24SBs) and Tom Verdi (.289, 10SBs).

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104- MICHIGAN STATE (37-23)

RHP David Garner (6-3, 3.28) and OF Anthony Cheky (.311, 14SBs) had all-star summers in the Cape Cod and Northwoods summer leagues. Kirk Gibson’s son Cameron is a 4-star OFer.

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105- RUTGERS (31-25)

The Big East’s second-best offense (.292) returns nearly intact with seven starters back. Pitchers Rob Corsi (3-2, 4.59) and Nathan Roe return after missing significant time to injury.

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106- MEMPHIS (31-28)

As they hurdle toward moving to the Big East, the Tigers will need to re-bolster the pitching corps, but will have Jonathan Van Eaton (6-2, 1.58, 8svs) to lean on.

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107- USC (23-32)

The Trojans will return to the upper echelon soon, but it may not be this year yet. Especially with a totally revamped pitching staff. Transfer OF Greg Zebrack hit .343 at Penn last year.

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108- TENNESSEE (24-31)

They may have finished last in the SEC, but they did have Ws over Texas, Kentucky, South Carolina, Florida and Vanderbilt. Expect more this year as Vols continue their climb.

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109- CAMPBELL (41-18)

The Camels have the best nickname AND went from 3-27 in the A-Sun in 2011 to 15-9 in the Big South. 2B Mike Felton hit .424 last year, 2nd-best among returning players this year.

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110- FURMAN (28-31)

The Paladins return nearly every pitcher of note, although they finished dead last at 5.67 in the SoCon stats. The will get RHP Drake Browne (2-2, 3.63 in 2011) back from injury.

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111- UL-MONROE (32-30)

It’s been since 2000 since ULM last went to the NCAA tournament before 2012′s big Sun Belt tourney title. Watch for 3B Corben Green, who hit just .261 but has an unlimited ceiling.

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112- SOUTHERN ILLINOIS (31-28)

These dudes came within one game of going to the Big Dance last year, losing the title game to Creighton. Lots of pitching comes back and Todd Eaton (3-0, 2.23, 9svs) will lock down Ws.

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113- SAN JOSE STATE (22-29)

For the first time in 25 years the Godfather of college baseball, Sam Piraro, won’t be on the sidelines. Dave Nakama takes over and has most of the 2012 team returning.

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114- UT-ARLINGTON (36-25)

The Movin Mavs are moving to the WAC and will have to suffer through a rebuilding season to start. There are a lot of holes to replace off their first NCAA tourney team since 2006.

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115- ST. MARY’S (24-29)

Losing MLB draftees like Troy Channing, Patrick Wilson, Martin Agosta and Kyle Barraclough will be tough to overcome. But 37th round draftee Casey Burns sparks a bright future.

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116- FLORIDA GULF COAST (26-31)

OF Michael Suchy (.195) and RHP Brady Anderson (1-7, 4.08) had poor 2012 seasons for FGCU, but starred in the Northwoods League last summer. They’ll bolster a stacked roster for this year.

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117- ALABAMA (21-34)

A pair of stellar sophomores will blaze the trail back to respectability in C/OF Ben Moore (.342) and RHP Jake Hubbard (3-2, 3.10, 3svs). The 16th-ranked recruiting class will help too.

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118- NORTH FLORIDA (31-24)

RHPs Tyler Moore (7-3, 2.16) and Kyle Westwood (6-4 2.84) combined for seven complete games last season. The top six hitters in the order also come back for the Ospreys.

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119- PORTLAND (27-25)

It’s hard to believe that a team that posted a winning record and went 12-12 in the WCC actually hit just .239 last season. But the youthful Pilots will grow up as this season goes on.

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120- BOSTON COLLEGE (22-33)

Tom Bourdon (.324-10-37) is the only hitter in the top six coming back, so they Eagles have to lean on top arms Eric Stevens (5-3, 5.64), John Gorman (0-1, 3.76) and Nate Bayuk (3-2, 2.76)

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121- BYU (22-27)

Hard to believe that favorite son Vance Law isn’t on the bench anymore, having been run off after his second straight 27-loss season. Mike Littlewood takes on the uphill struggle now.

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122- SOUTH FLORIDA (38-22)

Bulls went from 2011′s 25 wins to 38 last season. But now they’ll venture forward with few arms returning, though relievers Austin Adams and Steven Leasure combined for 11 saves.

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123- STETSON (35-23)

The Hatters will also be in rebuilding mode, having just two fielders and five pitchers of note back from last season. Two-way threat Kurt Schluter (5-3,.275) will be invaluable.

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124- SETON HALL (34-24)

The Pirates could finish much better than this, especially with a slightly weaker Big East, a modicum of experience all over the field and a staff whose ERA was 3.60 last season.

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125- UAB (32-30)

It had been since the 1991 season that UAB had last gone to the NCAA tournament, before returning last season. And the 32 wins was the most since 1996. Bravo Blazers.

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126- UNLV (26-31)

There is a lot of star power back for the Rebs in freshman All American Erick Fedde (6-5, 3.59), OF Brandon Bayardi (.361-7-53) and dual-threat Mark Shannon (.313, 6HRs & 3-3, 6.11).

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127- RHODE ISLAND (33-25)

Speed merchants like OFs Jeff Roy (.356, 22SBs) and Chris Famiglietti (.277, 25SBs) helped URI to the second-most stolen bases in the A-10 with 122.

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128- ARMY (41-15)

An incredible 2012 season could be extended here as three weekend starters return, including RHP Chris Rowley, who went 11-1, 2.40, plus bullpenner Gunnar Carroll (2-1, 2.48, 8svs).

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129- DARTMOUTH (24-18)

These dudes are still kicking mad about losing the Ivy title, despite having the best ISR ranking. All four weekend arms return, as does OF Jeff Keller (.352) and 1B Dustin Selzer (.324).

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130- CAL STATE NORTHRIDGE (23-30)

UTL Joshua Goossen-Brown (4-3, 4.74 & .275) missed 2012, but will team with LHP Jerry Keel (603, 2.07) and RHP Louis Cohen (7-2, 5.86) to give the Mats a fighting chance.

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131- WRIGHT STATE (37-21)

The Raiders have now won 32, 36, 30, 33, 31, 36 and 37 games the last seven years. Don’t look for that to stop as they’ll be pitching-heavy, even without ace Jordan Marker.

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132- MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE (31-28)

Fence-busters like Trent Miller (13HRs), Johnny Thomas (7HRs) and Hank LaRue (5HRs) will keep the offense moving and the 2nd-best defense in the Sun Belt will keep them in games.

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133- UNC-GREENSBORO (25-27)

A 10th-place finish was too much for the administration to take, so head coach Mike Gaski got his walking papers after 22 years. Link Jarrett was named the second-ever UNCG head coach.

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134- FIU (31-26)

Turtle Thomas has brought a lot of talent to FIU, but this time around he’ll have to forge an all-new pitching staff which should make for some early ups-and-downs. But come May… it could be “go” time.

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135- LAMAR (22-30)

Seven of the eight returning starters in the field are JC transfers and should find more of a comfort zone in year two. If they do, look for LU to break their three-year sub-.500 stretch.

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136- MINNESOTA (29-27)

Pitching has always been a calling card for The U and with LHP Tom Windle (3-5, 3.27), RHP Kevin Kray (7svs, .198OBA) and LHP D.J. Snelten (4-4, 3.24) back, it won’t change here.

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137- CORNELL (31-17)

Going from 10 wins in 2011 to the NCAAs in 2012 was remarkable. A gaggle of stellar pitchers alone should allow the Big Red to have a fighting chance to get back to the Big Dance.

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138- CENTRAL MICHIGAN (34-29)

Coach Steve Jaksa and his staff must replace five of their top six hitters and three of their top four pitchers from last season. So reaching the 30-win plateau could be a chore.

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139- SAMFORD (41-23)

Last season’s run to the Regional championship round capped the Bulldogs’ best season in school history, but 48 of their 64 mound starts have moved on. So yes, a 139 ranking is very low. Feel free to prove me wrong guys.

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140- TOLEDO (30-27)

The defending West Division champs have starters LHP Ryan Wilkinson (7-4, 2.99) and RHP Jared Locke (3-7, 4.87). plus LHP Kyle Shaw, a 2011 starter who went 6-3, 3.87, rejoins them.

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141- MANHATTAN (33-27)

The Jaspers are in the middle of a seven year run of 30+ win seasons and this year’s loaded lineup (eight of nine) and pitching staff (eight of top nine) hints there will be no letup.

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142-  XAVIER (28-28)

If the X-men can get off to a better start this time (2-11 last year), they could be headed for a memorable season. The loaded pitch staff posted a 3.87 team ERA last year.

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143- CANISIUS (33-27)

A pair of extra inning losses to Manhattan in the MAAC tourney has stuck in the Griffin’s craw for eight months now. A deep squad, there is starting experience all up and down the roster.

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144- ARKANSAS STATE (34-23)

The Red Wolves made the SBC tourney title round last year, but now must replace a pair of aces on the hill. Look for saves extraordinaire John Koch to possibly move to a weekend role.

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145- CENTRAL ARKANSAS (25-30)

Four of the top five hitters return, three of which hit .300+. Also, 41 of the 55 starts on the mound come back as well, as the Bears look to make a serious run to SLC title contention.

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146- RICHMOND (30-26)

This could be the best pitching brigade in the A-10 with LHP Zak Sterling (7-1, 2.57) and two-way talent Jacob Mayers (6-3, 83Ks & .339, 10HRs) leading the way.

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147- THE CITADEL (25-33)

If the Bulldogs can get over hitting just .251 last season and get better swings, their over-stocked pitching staff could push them to the upper echelon of the SoCon standings.

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148- SOUTH ALABAMA (23-34)

Not that 2012 was a total buzz-kill or anything, but year two of the Mark Calvi tenure will be much smoother. 2B Logan Kirkland hit .339 in 2011 and will return after missing 2012.

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149- AUSTIN PEAY (40-24)

A 40-win season was capped by making it to the Regional finals vs. Oregon. Not bad Govs. Still some talent back but only four pitchers who threw more than 15 innings return.

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150- VCU (34-25)

A new league (A-10) and new challenges (only two pitchers return) lie ahead for the Rams in 2013. But big sticks like OF Bill Cullen (.347) and Joey Cujas (.390) will help the transition.

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151- ARKANSAS-LITTLE ROCK (26-28)

This will be a junior-senior heavy team, including the one-two punch of RHPs Chance Cleveland (9-4, 3.93) and Blake Huffman (5-4, 6.40), also reliever Bubba Cooper (2-3, 3.73).

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152- LIPSCOMB (25-30)

The Bison struggled away from Music City, going 1-11 in A-Sun road games last year. But an easier pre-conference slate will help them acclimate the many new faces.

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153- BRADLEY (27-27).

Freshman All American 2B Chris Godinez is one of the few returnees in what will be a rebuilding campaign. The biggest loss is All MVC ace Joe Bircher and his 113Ks.

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154- DUKE (21-34)

New head honcho Chris Pollard has good credentials and will have a lot of experienced Blue Devils back in the dugout. A great incoming class will help the transition even more.

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155- EASTERN ILLINOIS (29-29)

The Panthers have led the OVC in pitching the last two years (4.14 team ERA in 2012). This time around RHP Troy Barton (9-5, 3.20) and five other key arms could make it three straight.

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156- HOLY CROSS (33-22)

The 2012 squad won the most games in its 137 year history of the program and with eight field starters and three weekend arms back, that mark may only stand for one year.

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157- MAINE (28-28)

The Black Bears had massive underachieving problems that lead to their .500 finish. But coach Trimper calls this year’s squad the hardest-working unit he’s coached. Onward and upward.

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158- LOUISIANA (23-30)

It’s bizarre to see this program at the bottom rung of the Sun Belt standings. But 1B Chase Compton (.328), SS Ryan Leonard (.327) and 3B Tyler Girouard (.298) lead a solid D.

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159- EASTERN KENTUCKY (31-23)

LHP Shane Grimm (6-4, 3.14) and RHP Anthony Bazzani (1-1, 3.40, 8svs) are returning All-OVC picks, but will need some newbies to pick up the pace and acclimate quickly to D1 ball.

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160- UTAH (14-42)

The Utes were a little over-matched in year one of Pac 12 play, but should play better this time around. Every pitcher returns but it was a unit that posted a conference-worst 5.20.

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161- KANSAS (24-34)

Damn. If this was only basketball. But Ritch Price has all three weekend starters back, but the offense needs to hit better than that .246 they posted last year.

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162- PITTSBURGH (28-28)

Nine of ten pitchers come back off a unit that issued the fewest walks in the Big East (159).

163- UT-SAN ANTONIO (22-32)

A traditional winner, UTSA hasn’t won 30+ since 2009, ending 2012 in last place in the SLC. RHP Jordan Pacheco (1-3, 5.82) was the Pitcher of the Year in the Texas Collegiate League.

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164- KANSAS STATE (27-31)

All American OF Jared King (.377-7-47, 16SBs) is a difference-maker and will team with OF Tanner Witt (.310, 20SBs) to put pressure on opposing defenses.

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165- HIGH POINT (28-31)

Other than losing their top two hitters, the rest of the cupboard is stocked to the gills. RHP Jaime Schultz (4-3, 3.14) and UTL Ryan Retz (6-5, 4.16 & hit .285) had .226 & .240 OBAs.

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166- TOWSON (27-31)

Prepare another toe tag. Apparently this will be the last season of Towson baseball… another budget victim. At least there’s a full eight starters and nine of the top ten pitchers returning. Make it memorable guys.

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167- TEXAS TECH (29-26)

No starting pitchers and only three fielders from last year. Hey, the glass is half-full ‘coz at least the addition of West Virginia means TT won’t finish in the basement of the Big 12 again.

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168- GARDNER-WEBB (32-28)

All 60 starting assignments return on the hill for G-W, but better bullpen work is a must after the Bulldogs lost 12 games by one or two runs last season.

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169- PRINCETON (20-19)

Righties Zak Hermans (6-2, 3.00) and Mike Ford (4-4, 3.60) strung together seven complete games between them as the Tigers looked like the best team in the Ivy for most of 2012.

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170- BRYANT (33-21)

Bulldogs have bite. The NEC favorites return seven pitchers from last year and six of them had sub-4.00 ERAs. OF Kevin Brown (.281-9-35) could be the best slugger in the NEC.

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171- STEPHEN F. AUSTIN (26-33)

Almost all the pitching but very little of the fielding returns for 2013, but the Jacks can count on the double-play combo of SS Hunter Dozier (.357-10-37) and 2B Freddy Villalobos (.296)

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172- IOWA (23-27)

This time around coach Jack Dahm loves the MLB draft. Sr. LHP Matt Dermody, a 23rd round pick (D’backs), and frosh C Blake Hickman, a 20th rounder, will be difference makers.

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173- SOUTHERN (33-16)

The best HBCU program returns to the top of the SWAC with the best collection of pitchers in the conference, led by Jose De Leon (8-3, 2.62, 103Ks) and Jesse Holliday (7-3, 3.09).

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174- EASTERN MICHIGAN (25-31)

The Eagles went 6-2 vs. fellow in-staters last season and led the MAC in walks, culling 278 freebies. Kendall Lewis (7-4, 4.21 in 2010) comes back after missing the last two seasons.

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175- BETHUNE-COOKMAN (34-27)

Leading the MEAC in strikeouts thrown (367) and stolen bases (102) shows the Wildcats are still up to their old tricks. LHP Ali Simpson (2-1, 4.30) is back to lead a deep, experienced staff.

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176- JAMES MADISON (16-35)

We’re not used to seeing the Dukes win just 16 games (they won 42 in 2011). Eight starters are back, plus Matt Tenaglia, who hit .341-9-54 in 2011 returns after sitting out last year.

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177- WESTERN MICHIGAN (26-29)

Nearly every pitcher of note returns including six relievers who threw 15+ innings last year. Offensively, only 3B Patrick Duncan (.321) returns with a .300+ batting average.

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178- COLUMBIA (21-24)

RHP Tim Giel made an appearance in the Cape Cod League All-Star game and looks for a big season. Meanwhile, Alex Black (.370) is the top hitter returning in the Ancient Eight.

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179- MIAMI UNIV. (30-29)

The Redhawks took down NCAA teams like Michigan State, Dayton and Ole Miss in 2012. The mound corps will rebuild around Mac Thoreson (7-3, 4.77) and Charles Zubrod (4-4, 4.0-4).

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180- NORTH DAKOTA STATE (40-20)

Yes, that IS a team from the Garden Peace state winning 40 games in a single season. Bitchin! It probably won’t happen again due to attrition, but the Bison will be Summit favorites.

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181- McNEESE STATE (24-30)

This was the weakest hitting team in the Southland last year with a horrid .239 team average. Taylor Klouser has the best returning average at .254. Meanwhile, opponents hit .293 off MSU.

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182- WEST VIRGINIA (23-32)

New head coach Randy Mazey has his work cut out for him, as the ‘Neers move to the Big 12. Relievers Ryan Tezak (3-3, 1.35, 6svs) and Josh Harlow (3-2, 4.82, 3svs) provide a solid ‘pen.

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183- DELAWARE (31-27)

A full 12 players with 20 or more starts come back for the Blue Hens, making this their most experienced squad in years. Let’s hope for a warm front as UD will host 10 games in March.

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184- MOREHEAD STATE (28-27)

MSU went from 10 wins in 2011 to last year’s winning record. Ace Aaron Goe (6-5, 4.20) and reliever Matt Duncan (2-1, 2.45, 13svs) will be leaning posts for an experienced pitching staff.

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185- MONMOUTH (35-24)

The Hawks could’ve been an NCAA team had they not gone 1-5 vs. Sacred Heart last season. But the entire infield returns intact after helping Monmouth to a .971 fielding percentage.

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186- MILWAUKEE (27-27)

Six of the top seven pitchers are back. Panther fireballer Josh Uhen returns after sitting out 2012 recovering from Tommy John surgery and was throwing 98mph heat in the fall.

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187- HOUSTON BAPTIST (28-33)

Two of the better two-way players in the Great West are INF/RHP Curtis Jones (.319 & 6-5, 4.10) and OF/RHP Jake Gonzalez (.328 & 2-2, 3.86, 5svs).

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188- HOUSTON (18-35)

Coach Todd Whitting is building here, so give it some time. Three drafted pitchers come to campus after turning down the pros in Jared West, Jake Lemoine and David Ponce De Leon.

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189- GEORGE MASON (33-24)

Mason will lose two weekend starters and their ace closer, so the arms corps will have to be re-tooled around RHP Anthony Montefusco (4-3, 3.61) and LHP Jake Kalish (5-2, 3.00, 5svs).

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190- UC DAVIS (27-30)

Digging in the dirt. It’ll be a major renovation for the Aggies in 2013. All three weekend posts will be restocked and 1B Eric Johnson and C Scott Kalush have also moved on.

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191- ILLINOIS-CHICAGO (23-34)

Joey Begel (7-7, 5.38) and Brian Evak (5-6, 4.70) combined for 28 starts and 190.2 innings and will have four experienced relievers behind them. Eight starters also come back in the field.

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192- NORTHEASTERN (23-28)

NU is notoriously stout in the pitching department. But last year’s 5.57 team ERA was an anomaly. Seven top hurlers come back, as does Chris Carmain, who had to sit out 2012.

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193- WILLIAM & MARY (31-25)

The Tribe has now suffered three losing seasons in the last four years, which was the impetus for regime change. In comes Jamie Pinzino and he’s got six of the eight fielders returning.

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194- JACKSONVILLE STATE (28-30)

The schedule is a little more manageable this year, so don’t look for another woeful 3-14 start like last year. But coach Jim Case has a rebuilding season ahead with all the turnover.

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195- VALPARAISO (35-25)

The Crusaders went 13-3 down the stretch which led to playing in the Gary Regional last June. The entire infield is back to improve on that .966 defense, which oddly let them down in Gary.

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196- TEXAS A&M-CORPUS CHRISTI (24-33)

The worst defense in the Southland was a real problem last season, so an all-new infield might not be the worst thing for 2013. But having only three experienced pitchers back is a problem.

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197- PRESBYTERIAN (24-31)

The bad news is the Blue Hose have won 24 games each of the last two seasons. But the good side is that is still the highest number of wins since they’ve joined the D1 baseball ranks.

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198- MICHIGAN (22-34)

Hot commodity Eric Bakich comes from Maryland to lead the Big Blue to greener pastures. OFs Patrick Biondi (.306, 32SBs) and Michael O’Niell (.329, 20SBs) are two of the nation’s fastest.

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199- JACKSONVILLE (18-38)

One of the biggest underachievers in the last decade, the Dolphins have to be snorting mad to get out and make amends. Lots of pitching back from last year, including all three weekenders.

200- ALABAMA STATE (20-36)

Mervyl Melendez has the Midas Touch, going from 6-18 in SWAC play in 2011 to 14-10. The Hornets swiped 132 bases last year and has OF Richard Amion (.288, 36SBs) to lead them.

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201- AIR FORCE (14-39)

With eight starters back the Falcons go into the wild blue yonder with loads of offensive talent like OF Garrett Custons (.316-4-30), OF Alex Bast (.304-5-31) and 1B Seth Kline (.322-5-21).

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202- SEATTLE (25-30)

The Redhawks will have only 11 starting assignments returning but relievers Eric Yardley (2-2, 2.49, 5svs) and Garrett Anderson (6-6, 5.66) will take on bigger roles.

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203- BINGHAMTON (23-26)

A brand new home field awaits the Bearcats in 2013. With all nine starters in the field and two weekend starters on the mound coming back, it should make for greener pastures for BU.

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204- DAYTON (31-30)

The A-10 tourney champs lived up to their name, stealing 164 bases in 2012 and return Robby Sunderman (15SBs) and Mel Skochdopole (20SBs). But fixing the .956 defense is vital.

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205- WINTHROP (17-35)

Unlike last year’s pre-Big South slate, the Eagles actually play a lot of winnable games and won’t limp out to another 1-13 start. An all-senior weekend rotation will cull more wins too.

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206- MARSHALL (17-37)

RHPs Aaron Blair (2-8, 3.98, .236OBA) and Josh King (2-5, 2.30, .250OBA) look to OF Issac Ballou (.308, 21SBs) and his mates to get more offensive support.

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207- PACIFIC (16-40)

A lot of freshmen took their lumps last year, but coach Ed Sprague loves that they are now sophomores and ready to cash in on some success. But an improved Big West will be tough.

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208- UNC-ASHEVILLE (25-30)

DH/OF Billy Creighton (.306-6-32) has a great name but the Bulldogs’ arms staff will lose Friday ace Ryan Dull and saves leader Ethan Steible among others.

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209- UT-PAN AMERICAN (30-22)

The Broncos won 30 games, but have gone 6-24 and 9-17 on the road the last two years. Five field starters and two weekend pitchers return, but Roger Bernal’s .414 average is gone.

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210- SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE (23-36)

Mark Hogan ended his 18-year run as SEMO coach with 526 wins and 18 straight OVC tourneys. Ace RHP Shae Simmons’ 15 starts are gone but every other mound starter returns.

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211- WOFFORD (22-32)

Perhaps no one in the Southern Conference lost as much as the Bulldogs did, including their Friday/Saturday starters and battery mate Mac Doyle, who had 13HRs at the dish.

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212- FORDHAM (22-34)

The arms staff returns six of the eight most-used pitchers, including RHPs Joseph Charest (5-8, 3.43) and Jeremy Adel (3-4, 1.54), but the offense must hit better than .249 this season.

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213- TENNESSEE TECH (21-32)

Tech might have the best collection of hitters returning in the Ohio Valley with four .300+ bats back, led by All American candidate Zach Stephens, who hit .358 with 18HRs.

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214- ST. JOSEPH’S (25-32)

Dare we say, the Hawks MIGHT just contend in the A-10 if the planets align. They had the 2nd-best pitching and defensive units in the loop last season and nearly everyone is back.

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215- SIU-EDWARDSVILLE (27-28)

The Cougars acclimated well to their 1st year in the OVC, going 13-14. Two of the better power threats are bcd in Joel Greatting (.304-8-40) and Devin Caldwell (.266-7-31).

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216- EAST TENNESSEE STATE (23-32)

Head coach Tony Skole calls this one of his most athletic defenses in his tenure, now if the heavily inexperienced pitching staff steps up, this could be a special season. But it’s a big “if”.

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217- CHARLOTTE (21-32)

Hard to tell where this program is going to go now. A kerplunk! 2012 season was unexpected, but with eight starters back in the field and seven top pitchers, ’13 could be very good.

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218- NORTHWESTERN (18-36)

There may not be two more valuable players to their teams in the country than RHP/UTLs Zach Morton (1-10, 3.48 & .297) and Kyle Ruchim (0-2, 3.38, 7svs & .290-3-26).

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219- CINCINNATI (18-38)

I keep waiting for a Bearcat breakout, but it hasn’t happened yet. This year will be tough too with only one weekend starter and just three field starters back. C’mon coach Cleary, shock us.

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220- RADFORD (29-28)

Like UC above, just one weekend starter and three field starters back, but SS Jeff Kemp (.328-4-48) and RHP Tyler Costell (7-3, 3.81) are potential difference-makers.

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221- DELAWARE STATE (40-17)

Shock. Pure shock. The Hornets actually won the MEAC regular season, not Bethune. DSU had the top hitting (.306) and pitching (3.59) in the loop and return a ton of that talent.

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222- VILLANOVA (28-27)

Rollie Massamino U. has a pair of absolute studs in SS/2B Tyler Sciacca (.359, 17SBs) and staff ace Pat Young (6-5, 4.39). Beyond them, they will have to rebuild.

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223- GEORGIA STATE (24-31)

For the second straight year, GSU looks to be having a rebuilding season as only four pitchers of note return, none of which were weekend starters. But three of the top four hitters return.

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224- SACRED HEART (25-32)

The Pioneers will contend for the NEC crown with seven returning fielders and all three weekend pitchers. SS John Murphy hit .308 at the Cape League last summer.

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225- NORTHWESTERN STATE (19-32)

Very little returns for the Demons, but the two starters that are coming back are significant. Will Watson (.335, 23SBs) and catcher Nick Purdy (.230) is a block of granite behind the dish.

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226- JACKSON STATE (34-17)

The Tigers dominated the SWAC, winning the East by seven games. Desmond Russell (10-2, 2.34 & .277) is a two-way star and RHP Gary Mele was 4-3, 3.17 with five saves.

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227- TEMPLE (19-34)

If the Owls can turn around their 13 one-run losses from last year, they could end with a winning mark in 2013. Six fielders and three weekend starters return.

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228- MURRAY STATE (23-33)

A moribund 5-16 skid helped slide the Racers to a 10th-place finish in the OVC in 2012. Only one of the six returning pitchers with 15 or more innings of work has a sub-5.00 ERA.

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229-  CENTRAL CONNECTICUT STATE (28-24)

A 30+ win season is a near certainty with as much talent returning this year. But the Devils went just 5-12 vs. the top four teams in the NEC last season. Step it up in the clutch guys.

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230- BUTLER (22-34)

A move from the Horizon to the A-10 won’t help much for a struggling baseball program. But 1B Jimmy Risi hit .282 with 12 dingers and RHP Chase Byerly saved 10 of the 22 wins last year.

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231- RIDER (22-34)

Every pitcher of note comes back to campus along with four of the top five hitters. LHP Tyler Smith went 5-5, 3.72, but more impressively had six complete games and three saves.

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232- ST. BONAVENTURE (23-25)

The double play combo of Billy Urban (.340) and Jason Radwan (.337) also contributes on the mound as the SS and 2B went 2-1, 5.48 and 4-4, 5.35, 3svs respectively.

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233- NORTHERN KENTUCKY (36-22 in D2)

The Norsemen are post-season veterans in Division II, but will face an uphill battle in the A-Sun. A stacked lineup comes back, but watch for reliever Brett Loeding (7-4, 1.75 with 12svs).

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234- OHIO (28-29)

Mike Schmidt U. has very little pitching returning from a corps that had a 3.73 team ERA, good for 2nd in the MAC. But the top three hitters come back, led by 1B Jake Madsen (.344).

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235- MARIST (25-25)

Could be a special season as six pitchers who had an ERA under 5.00 return, including starters Chris Bielak (2-2, 3.72) and Brett Houseal (4-6, 4.00) and ace reliever Kevin McCarthy.

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236- NICHOLLS STATE (26-28)

2012 stopped a string of four straight seasons of improved win totals. But Phillip Lyons (.335), Matt Richard (.278) and Mike Barba (.272) combined for eight triples and 55 stolen bases.

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237- DAVIDSON (17-31)

‘Cats are stuck in a rut, going 18-30 in 2011, then 17-31 in 2012. Very little starting experience returns to the hurlers, but reliever Clark Beeker (2-3, 3.66) may move to a weekend spot.

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238- PENN (17-23)

Five of the top six pitchers come back, led by Cody Thompson (2-4, 3.63),  who starters eight games and saved two games as well. Catcher Austin Bossart (.276) committed just 3 errors.

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239- NEW JERSEY TECH (25-27)

Pitching rich. The ever improving Highlanders (16-12 Great West mark) have eight of the top nine pitchers back, led by RHP D.J. Roche (3-4, 4.02) and LHP Trip Davis (5-2, 3.29).

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240- GEORGETOWN (24-29)

The Hoyas can certainly swing it, hitting 101 doubles last season, second in the Big East. Five of the six returning fielders and five of eight top pitchers back are seniors.

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241- BOWLING GREEN (20-33)

This may have the most experienced team in the country as all nine hitters in the batting order come back and as do seven of the top pitchers. Also, BGSU beat Kent State twice in 2012.

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242- ALBANY (22-32)

Speaking of beating CWS teams, the Danes knocked off Stony Brook as part of a 14-6 close to 2012. OFs Nolan Gaige (.302), Josh Nethaway (.313) and D.J. Hoagboon (.318) lead the O.

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243- BALL STATE (14-36)

Former Michigan coach Rich Maloney will make a big difference in this program. Having the top four hitters and seven of the top nine pitchers back could make for immediate results.

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244- MASSACHUSETTS (22-22)

Lots of hitting but nearly no pitching returns. The Minutemen will use 2B Rob McLamb (.337) and OF Rich Graef (.333) to outscore people this season.

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245- CHARLESTON SOUTHERN (20-36)

The Buccaneers will have one of the better outfields in the Big South as meadowboys like Chase Shelton (.344-4-30), Bobby Ison (.333, 10SBs) and John Faircloth (.287-4-24).

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246- OLD DOMINION (19-34)

Their final year in the Colonial (before moving to CUSA) will be a rebuilding project as there are no starting pitching coming back and no .300+ hitters.

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247- NIAGARA (19-29)

Strangely, the Purple Eagles had the best offense (.290 team average) but worst pitching (6.49 team ERA) in the MAAC last year. But the entire pitching staff comes back and should improve.

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248- LONGWOOD (27-21)

Year one in the Big South shouldn’t be too big a problem for the Lancers. 1B Justin Lacy (.376-6-32) and C Scott Burkett (.357-7-35) are power sticks to lead the offense.

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249- GEORGE WASHINGTON (20-35)

Last season, the Colonels were outscored by 92 runs in the first four innings, so they can’t dig themselves ditches early in games.

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250- NORTHERN COLORADO (27-33)

Before they head to the WAC in 2014, the Bears want a good final round of Great West play. They’ll get back 2011 All American 1B Ben Packard (.374 in 2011) after he sat out 2012.

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251- FAIRFIELD (27-28)

May be a tough encore, but Bill Currier was named MAAC coach of the year after leading the Stags to a school-record 27 wins. OF Ryan Plourde (.328-6-35) was 2nd team All MAAC

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252- BUFFALO (20-36)

All four infield starters return to the second best defense in the MAC (.966) and OFs Matt Pollack (.357-12-44) and Jason Kanzier (.345-8-40) are two big sticks for the O.

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253- BUCKNELL (21-28)

Head coach Gene Depew exits after a 31-year stint in the Bison dugout. Scott Heather takes over and will need to revamp the bullpen for 2013. But three weekend starters are back.

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254- GRAMBLING STATE (22-26)

The Tigers lose difference-makers like .410 hitter Troy Brown and Carlos Wolfe, who had 29 stolen bases. But INF Elias Todman (.344) and C Jose Longoria (.331) will lead.

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255- SOUTH DAKOTA STATE (18-33)

Year two in the Dave Schrage era should be a good one with all three weekend pitchers back, led by Stephen Bougher (6-5, 4.01) and Adam Bray (3-3, 4.31), a pair of sharp righties.

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256- NORTH DAKOTA (19-37)

A full 55 of the 56 starting assignments were manned by freshman arms last year. No foolin’. They’ll all come back for this spring, though the 274 walks issued must be stopped.

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257- HARVARD (12-30)

The death of likable head coach Joe Walsh in the off-season was a shock. It will be tough to move on, but the SS-2B combo of Jake McGuiggan (.352) and Kyle Larrow (.350) will help.

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258- OAKLAND (25-31)

The Grizzlies have lost a lot of claws from last year with the three most-used pitchers and program record-holder Tim Ryan (.410) moving on. RHP Russell Luxton had 10 saves in ’12.

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259- VMI (16-36)

The Keydets had a “rock bottom” season, finishing with just 16 wins. There is plenty coming back, including leadoff man Jordan Tarsovich, who missed most of 2012.

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260- IONA (21-33)

MAAC player of the year Chris Burke and three other .292+ hitters have left. The Two Krisses will be leaned on in INF Matthew Kriss (.302, 10SBs) and RHP Tom Kriss (7svs).

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261- NORTHERN ILLINOIS (15-40)

Only three starters in the field and no weekenders on the mound makes the performance of OF/RHP Alex Klonowski (.280 & 3-1, 5.47) so valuable to this teams chances.

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262- LIU-BROOKLYN (22-33)

Justin Topa, who sat out last season, has gotten all kinds of gloss after a great summer at the Northwoods League and should be a top pro prospect. Eight top pitchers from 2012 return.

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263- NAVY (23-29)

The Mids hit a Raggedy Ann-like .251 as a team  C/DH Dave Milanes was just .212 in 2012 after having an All-Patriot 2011 season and Brandon Beans (.307) got injured mid-stream.

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264- TEXAS SOUTHERN (26-28)

Seven Tiger batters hit .300+ last year, but only one of them returns in part-timer Jaglit Gordaya (..325 in 23 starts). Lot of pitching is back though and should keep TSU in contention.

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265- FAIRLEIGH-DICKINSON (25-28)

Coach Gary Puccio has the Knights on an uptick, more that doubling their win total from 2011 to 2012. 1B/LHP Eric Anderson (.300-8-40 & 3-2, 4.78) leads the offense and pitching.

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266- LASALLE (20-33)

RHP Pat Christiansen (4-3, 2.66, 9svs) and LHP Ryan Donahue (3-3, 2.91) spent last summer playing in the prestigious Cape Cod League and should have big seasons for LSU.

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267- WAGNER (22-33)

Look for OFs Ian Miller (.312, 34SBs), Jayson Keel (.273, 10SBs) and JC transfer Shaun Flynn (hit .504 last year at Burlington CC) to lead a potentially dangerous offense.

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268- ST. PETER’S (20-34)

The Peacocks have continued a steady rise in their program, winning 20 games last year. All three weekend starters are back to toe the rubber, led by Matt Macnini’s 5-3, 3.48 numbers.

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269- AKRON (17-38)

Not so good in the clutch, the Zips went 4-13 in one-run games last year. Nut up guys. Seven of the nine starters are back in the field, though none of them hit .300+.

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270- PRAIRIE VIEW A&M (28-25)

PV has gone to the NCAA tournament in three of the last seven years, including last year’s SWAC tourney title and appearance in the Houston Regional.

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271- IPFW (16-40)

The Mastadons have now suffered through seven straight years of sub-20 wins. Seven starters in the field and all three weekend starters on the hill come back for 2013.

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272- SIENA (18-37)

Ugh! Last year’s team ERA was 6.02 and the defense behind them was .952. There’s a lot of experience coming back and lots of band aids to go around and patch things up.

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273- NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL (19-32)

Jim Koerner did an outstanding job in year one at the wheel, going from 7-39 in 2011 to last year’s 19-32 mark, including a winning mark in MEAC play at 13-10.

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274- QUINNIPIAC (9-38)

QU will retain the services of starting pitchers Spencer Kane (4-6, 6.29) and Nick Fabrizio (1-7, 4.74) who combined for 10 complete games a year ago.

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275- LEHIGH (18-31)

Corner infielders Tyler Brong (.319) and Connor Faust (.311) are part of an experienced and improved Mountain Hawk batting order. Forty of the 50 mound starts return for 2013.

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276- MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE (17-39)

The Devils lost out to Prairie View in the SWAC tourney title round, one game short of the NCAAs. All three weekend mound starers come back for 2013, but the bullpen needs retooling.

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277- NEBRASKA-OMAHA (13-36)

The Movin’ Mavs are movin’ to the Summit League in 2013, but will have to do so with one one starter in the field and one weekend starter on the mound coming back. Rebuilding year.

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278- YOUNGSTOWN STATE (11-44)

3B Drew Dosch (.353-8-42) got the starting assignment in the Cape Cod League All Star game last July. CF Neil Schroth hit .297 in 2011 but sat out the 2012 season.

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279- BROWN (9-35)

A single digit win total?… Egad people! The Bears DO return seven field starters off a .968 defense. The top seven pitchers of note also come back so there is hope for more wins.

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280- WESTERN ILLINOIS (17-35)

A savvy recruiter, Ryan Brownlee takes over the WIU program after a long run as an Iowa assistant. There is very little D1 experience coming back so this project will take some time.

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281- SAVANNAH STATE (19-34)

RHP Kyle McGowin (6-5, 3.43) was rated the No. 2 pro prospect in the Atlantic Collegiate League last summer and heads up a stocked pitching corps. Look for 20+ wins… at least.

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282- MOUNT ST. MARY’S (14-40)

The Mountaineers have now finished 7-25 and last in the NEC two straight years. Catcher Mark Quarenta (.333-4-34) is a solid backstop and SS Nick Walker (.233) will excel..

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283- NORTH CAROLINA A&T (20-36)

A decent 4.87 team ERA will return 40 of last year’s 56 starts, led by Brent Moore (5-6, 3.01) and Tyler Boone (5-6, 4.44). 1B Kelvin Freeman (.338) leads the MEAC’s 2nd-best offense.

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284- NORFOLK STATE (22-28)

Okay Spartan offense, the pressure’s on you because the pitching is set with the rotation of RHP Chris Horne (7-5, 2.75), Ryan VanAssche (4-7, 408) and Justin Bhatti (4-7, 4.08)

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285- YALE (13-31)

When he wasn’t hanging ten in the Bonzai Pipeline RHP David Hickey was throwing bee-bees and named the No. 1 pro prospect in the Hawaiian League last summer.

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286- TENNESSEE-MARTIN (13-41)

Dab rabbit! UTM has finished last in the OVC in five of last six seasons. There’s little pitching but the defense could be special with 3B Nico Zych (.277) and 2B Sonny Mastromatteo (.243).

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287- NEW ORLEANS (17-27)

The Privateers make the move back to the highest level of college baseball after a tour of duty in D2. UNO went 0-7 vs D1 teams last season.

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288- LAFAYETTE (14-37)

Nearly the entire team comes back for 2013, led by 2B Kevin Casey (.330). But the Leopards hit just .231 as a team and need to bear down more.

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289- ALCORN STATE (18-37)

The Braves have a real emerging star at SS in Angel Rosa (.292-4-30). Fellow dirtbagger Christian Hickman (.313) will help out but there is little else returning.

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290- UM-BC (10-42)

Ack! Stuck in a rut, the Retrievers have had 10 wins overall and two wins in AmEast play for the last two years. Hopefully the offense helps RHP Shane Viasic (2-8, 4.62) get more wins.

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291- NEW YORK TECH (5-46)

Infielder Ali Rodriguez (.357, 25SBs) is a real gem, but there are a lot of lumps of coal who will need to step up amongst the many returnees. So the potential for improvement is there.

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292- HARTFORD (16-40)

The Hawks improved as the year went on in 2012, so if they can keep that upward mobility, they could reach the 20+ win mark. Brian Hunter is a great two-way dude (3-4, 4.71, .288).

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293- MARYLAND-EASTERN SHORE (14-39)

After an 0-19 start, the Hawks went 14-20 the remainder of last year. Six of the top seven hitters return, led by Tre-von Johnson (.318) and Byron Campbell (.302).

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294- ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF (8-38)

Not a lot of starters come back for the Lions, but maybe some new blood will be helpful after last year’s 8-win campaign. Incoming JC transfer Isias Alcantar could be a star at short.

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295- CHICAGO STATE (13-40)

3B Mattingly Romanin not only has one of the better names in D1 but will be a leader for the Cougars. An 11-14 finish to 2012 and all three weekend pitchers back buoys higher hopes.

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296- ALABAMA A&M (8-42)

Last year’s starting rotation was all-frosh and should be improved for 2013. OF Brandyn Crutcher (.264, 30SBs) and 3B Julio Nunez (.228, 15SBs) need to get on base more to utilize their speed.

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297 (TIE) – COPPIN STATE (1-53) and FLORIDA A&M (7-45)

Since the MEAC foolishly went to division play (where the four teams in the North only play each other, not any games against the South Division) the Eagles and Rattlers won’t face each other this year. So here’s what I propose, let’s set up a three-game weekend between the two which will take place at the same time as the MEAC tourney in Norfolk. The loser of the series has to drop to D2. Deal? Deal.

By the way Stitch-Heads, more preview garb to come in the next few days. Meant to have it up earlier, but don’t worry, it’ll be posted soon enough boys and girls.

G’night.