2009 Outlook: Catchers

Today's spotlight turns behind the plate, where senior Cody Neer and a pair of newcomers look to fill the shoes left by All-Big 12 catcher Mitch Abeita.

One spot where the Huskers will have a new face is at catcher, as two-year starter Mitch Abeita wrapped up his Husker career earning first-team All-Big 12 honors. NU is fortunate to have a catcher with extensive starting experience - senior Cody Neer - along with a pair of newcomers Cory Burleson and Jed Hanson.

Neer served as Abeita’s backup at the position last spring, hitting .234 with a homer and 22 RBIs while also seeing time at first base and designated hitter. Prior to coming to NU, Neer was the starting catcher at the University of Florida and hit .271 with five homers and 33 RBIs as the Gators’ primary catcher in 2007.

“We expect a lot from our catchers, and Cody has done a good job of buying into what we do,” Anderson said. “He has really worked on the defensive aspect of his game and has come a long way over the last year. He is highly motivated for the season and has put himself in position to have a great year.”

Burleson comes to Nebraska after earning second-team all-state honors in Texas. The switch-hitter batted .402 with five homers and 22 RBIs at Midland (Texas) Christian High School last spring. Burleson got off to a slow start in the fall because of injuries, but impressed the coaching staff with his progress in the off-season, and he has an opportunity to earn ample playing time.

Hanson may be one of the most versatile players on the entire roster. Last spring, he was at the College of Southern Idaho, hitting .272 with 38 RBIs while throwing out nearly 40 percent of baserunners.