ST. LOUIS - DBU, which returns a host of key position players and pitchers from last year's MVC title team, has been tabbed as the league favorite in the annual coaches' preseason poll, receiving all eight first-place votes.

The Patriots tallied 64 points and were named the favorite over second-place pick Indiana State (46 points). Illinois State (39 points) and Southern Illinois (39 points) finished tied for third, while Bradley finished fifth with 34 points. Missouri State was selected in sixth place with 32 points, followed by Evansville (19 points) in the seventh slot and Valparaiso eighth (15 points).