PGCROSSCHECKER COLLEGE TEAM SCOUTING REPORT

80. MINNESOTA (34-26, did not qualify for NCAA post-season play).

Conference/Projected Finish: Big 10/3^rd (17-14, 4^th in 2006).

Coach: John Anderson (905-573, 25 years).

First Game: Feb. 23 vs. UNC Asheville at Charleston, S.C.

OVERVIEW: The Gophers have had a winning record in every one of John Anderson’s 25 years as coach, and should prolong that streak as they return a solid nucleus from 2006, led by dependable senior SS Dan Lyons (.274-3-30) and sophomore OF Matt Nohelty (.361-0-26), the team’s top hitter and base stealer. They also have able replacements for their No. 1 starter, in junior RHP Dustin Brabender (6-5, 3.96), and closer in hard-throwing junior Gary Perinar (5-2, 3.86). 

TOP PROSPECT/JUNIOR: Gary Perinar, rhp. Perinar was a strikeout machine a year ago, fanning 37 in 21 innings. He’ll assume the closer’s role this year and his ability to become a premium pick in this year’s draft will depend on his ability to command his 92-94 mph fastball.

TOP FRESHMAN: Derek McCallum, ss. TOP SOPHOMORE: Kyle Carr, lhp. TOP SENIOR: Dan Lyons, ss.