PGCROSSCHECKER COLLEGE TEAM SCOUTING REPORT

52. KENTUCKY (44-17, lost in NCAA regionals).

Conference/Projected Finish: Southeastern/11^th (20-10, T-1^st in 2006).

Coach: John Cohen (97-74, 3 years).

First Game: Feb. 16 at Furman.

OVERVIEW: The Wildcats experienced one of the greatest rags-to-riches stories in college baseball history a year ago, going from last place in the SEC to first in one season. Several players responsible for that turnaround, chiefly 1B Ryan Strieby (.343-20-77), have departed but senior C Sean Coughlin (.325-17-55) returns, along with junior OFs Collin Cowgill (.298-16-61) and Antone DeJesus (.323-5-36). Junior RHP Andrew Albers (3-3, 5.40, 7 SV) becomes the ace of a revamped pitching staff. With 19 newcomers, the Wildcats may struggle to repeat their 2006 success but there is little question the program is on solid footing and last year’s success was not a fluke occurrence.  

TOP PROSPECT/SENIOR: Sean Coughlin, c. A late-round draft by the Diamondbacks in 2006, Coughlin could have been selected much earlier if he had not been so determined to get his degree before signing. His defensive skills are considered just average, but he has excellent leadership qualities and an intriguing lefthanded bat.

TOP FRESHMAN: Clint Tilford, rhp. TOP SOPHOMORE: Sean Green, rhp. TOP JUNIOR: Andrew Albers, rhp.