Not sure how you can label the AAC a Mid-Major, considering the league is always Top 3-Top 5 in the country. Life of a non-cartel...sigh. But it's nice to be recognized, even if it's in a back-handed kind of way, I guess.
5 Mid-Majors Who Could Pull a Coastal
– HOUSTON
The AAC regular and tournament champions return with a hyper amount of experience and hopes of going a step or two further in the post-season after hosting a Regional last season. Coach Todd Whitting says a trip to Omaha is a “When, not if” proposition for the Cougars.
The key is: Health and welfare
Last year, UofH had some injury issues and the psycho-circus that was ace Seth Romero, who was eventually kicked off the team. With smoother sailing, and a ton of experience, this could be UofH’s breakthrough year.
– CONNECTICUT
There is a lot of draftable talent on this year’s Husky squad, the most since 2011. LHP Tim Cate pitched for Team USA and three talents were Cape Cod League All Stars last summer in C Zac Susi, LF John Toppa and LHP P.J. Poulin. Plus, last year’s NCAA snub will be a driving force for this team all season long.
The key is: Not to run out of gas
Coach Jim Penders told me that the 2017 Huskies spent 51 of their first 82 days on the road, and it was a drain. That fatigue contributed to a 9-7 month of May. This time his squad is a more upperclassmen-led, so the hope is they are used to the college grind and have more stamina for a June push.