Georgia Bulldogs
Coach: David Perno (305-245-1 in nine seasons at Georgia)
Last year's finish: 16-37, sixth in SEC East
Prediction: Fifth in division
Returning stars: OF Zach Cone (.363, 10 HRs), SS Kyle Farmer (.340, school-record .962 fielding percentage), OF Peter Verdin (.307, 15 steals)
Key newcomers: 1B Jonathan Hester, IF Curt Powell, C/DH Joey Delmonico
What to expect: After having the highest ERA and most walks in the SEC last year, Perno involved himself more with the pitching staff and placed a greater emphasis on defense. Perno also wants the Bulldogs to be more selective at the plate. OF Chase Davidson has to deliver on the potential that made him a third-round pick out of high school, and P Michael Palazzone, Georgia's Friday starter, must improve from 2010 and anchor the staff.
Quotable: "We're just trying to get to the [eight-team] SEC tournament. Off the heels of the tough season we had last year, we're just trying to get back to neutral and have a chance in April and May to really contend, to be a part of the SEC tournament." -- Perno
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