PGCROSSCHECKER COLLEGE TEAM SCOUTING REPORT

91. COASTAL CAROLINA (30-27, did not qualify for NCAA post-season play).

Conference/Projected Finish: Big South/2^nd (15-9, 3^rd in 2006).

Coach: Gary Gilmore (407-250, 11 years).

First Game: Feb. 9 vs. North Florida at Springmaid Beach Resort Tournament at Conway, S.C.

OVERVIEW: The Chanticleers are looking to rebound to their 2005 form, when they went 50-16. The team’s strength is a rotation that returns sophomore RHP Bobby Gagg (4-1, 2.95), who ascends to No. 1 starter, senior LHP Andy de la Garza (3-6, 4.29) and junior RHP John Marriotti (5-2, 5.19). Senior closer Travis Risser (3-4, 3.38, 3 SV) also is back. Gagg has excellent command of an 87-90 mph fastball and has a good feel for changing speeds. Sophomore 1B David Anderson (.351-3-20), who doubles as the team’s No. 4 starter, is the team’s top offensive threat. He’s joined in the lineup by senior 2B Adam Vrable (.324-1-25) and sophomore OF David Sappelt (.315-5-37), the top two hitters from 2005.

TOP PROSPECT/SENIOR: John Marriotti, rhp. A two-time draft pick from Canada , Marriotti wasn’t selected a year ago despite a strong finish. He has the best pure stuff on the pitching staff with a fastball in the 88-92 mph range, a 78-83 mph slider and a plus changeup. He’ll not only be the No. 3 starter but can swing the bat. He hit .305-6-25 in a part-time DH role a year ago.

TOP FRESHMAN: Eric Godsy, ss. TOP SOPHOMORE: David Anderson, 1b-rhp. TOP JUNIOR: Kevin Noe, rhp.