SOMERSET, N.J.— The defending Northeast Conference champion LIU Brooklyn baseball team was picked to finish second in the annual NEC preseason coaches poll as announced by the league office Friday.
 
Bryant, the 2018 NEC regular season champions were tabbed as the league favorite unanimously by the coaches.  LIU was picked in second after its tournament championship run a season ago. Wagner and Mount St. Mary's were picked third and fourth respectively. Sacred Heart, Central Connecticut and Fairleigh Dickinson rounded out the seven-team poll. 

The Blackbirds earned a school record 31 wins a season ago, capturing the schools first NEC Tournament Championship on the way to an NCAA Regional Appearance. LIU returns 20 letter winners from last year's team, including All-NEC performers in Alex Briggs, Patrick Clyne, Mike Kreiger and Andrew Smith. The Blackbirds also welcome seven newcomers to the fold for the 2019 season. 

LIU will open the 2019 season Friday, February 15 on the road at Lamar University. First pitch is slated for 6:00 p.m.
 
 
NEC Baseball Preseason Coaches' Poll
1. Bryant (6)
2. LIU Brooklyn
3. Wagner
4. Mount St. Mary's
5. Sacred Heart
6. Central Connecticut
7. Fairleigh Dickinson