The West Alabama baseball team was announced as fifth in the preseason Gulf South Conference Baseball Coaches’ Poll. The Tigers recorded 18 points for the fifth place ranking edging out West Georgia and Christian Brothers in the eight-team poll.

The 2012 GSC champions, Delta State, captured the first place preseason ranking with 48 total points. The Statesman claimed the top spot by beating out West Florida by only five votes.

West Alabama seniors D.J. Turo and Barry Meeks were also announced as members of the GSC Preseason Team. First basemen D.J. Turo claimed first team honors while pitcher Barry Meeks claimed second team recognition. Both players pick up the preseason honors for the second straight year.

West Alabama freshmen Steven Glasgow, Zach Parks and Jacobby Robinson also gained preseason honors, being listed as 2013 GSC Baseball Top Newcomers.

The Tigers will open up the 2013 season on February 1, when they travel to take on Newberry. West Alabama is set to take on Montevallo in its home opener on February 13.