Some changes to conference hierarchies can be permanent. But in many cases, significant surges forward often are immediately met by decline.
We’ll find out which scenario springs true for Connecticut this spring, as the Huskies hope to build off an outstanding 2011 campaign, where it compiled a 45-20 overall record and 22-5 league record, a whopping 3 1/2 games ahead of second-place St. John’s.
While the Huskies hope to emulate last season’s success, doing so will be incredibly difficult. They have the tough chore of replacing weekend starting pitchers Greg Nappo, All-American Matt Barnes and experienced Elliot Glynn. Offensively, the Huskies are without one of the nation’s elite hitters from last season, outfielder George Springer, who hit .343 with 12 home runs and 77 RBIs. They also have the tough chore of replacing shortstop Nick Ahmed, though, preseason All-American LJ Mazzilli brings some stability to the middle infield.
Though the Huskies have some major question marks, Louisville and St. John’s are in fantastic shape. Coincidentally, the Cardinals and Johnnies lead the way into the 2012 campaign for the Big East Conference.
Louisville has an impressive one-two punch on the mound with right-handers Jeff Thompson and Justin Amlung – both touted prospects – leading the way. The Cardinals also have a stud closer in senior right-hander Derek Self. Look for UL’s offense to be productive, too.
St. John’s is similar to UL. The Johnnies probably won’t have a great offense this spring even with the return of hard-hitting outfielder Jeremy Baltz. However, the pitching staff is in excellent shape with a bona-fide ace on Friday nights in right-hander Kyle Hansen. Meanwhile, hard-throwing and rising prospect, closer Matt Carasiti, will end things on the back end.
Outside of the Johnnies and Cardinals, Connecticut, Notre Dame and Seton Hall are expected to fight for the No. 3 spot in the Big East. Meanwhile, keep an eye on Cincinnati, South Florida and Pittsburgh – all three programs with enough talent to make some noise.
HOW THEY STACK UP
Overall/conference won-loss records from 2011 indicated; expectation level denoted -- College World Series= CWS, NCAA Super Regional= SR, NCAA Regional= R