CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Jason Goldstein and Adam Walton were named the Big Ten's best defensive catcher and shortstop, respectively, according to Baseball America's conference preview. The publication also listed right-hander Cody Sedlock as the Big Ten's No. 3 prospect.

Baseball America says the Fighting Illini are one of the storylines to watch after the most successful season in program history in 2015. "Rival coaches expect Illinois to again be a contender in the Big Ten," proclaims Baseball America. The Illini won a program-best 50 games and claimed their 30th Big Ten title and first NCAA Regional crown on their way to hosting the first-ever NCAA Super Regional at Illinois Field.

Goldstein, a native of Highland Park, Illinois, is back for his senior season after being drafted in the 17th round of the MLB Draft by the Los Angeles Dodgers in June. He calls all the pitches for Illinois' staff that set a program record for ERA last season.

Walton started every game at shortstop and in the leadoff spot for Illinois in 2015. The 20th round pick of the Baltimore Orioles had a .954 field percentage while making just 14 errors in 61 games. Walton, a native Buffalo Grove, Illinois, also hit .289 with three homers and 31 RBI.

Sedlock was 4-0 with a 4.02 ERA as a sophomore last season. He is expected to have an increased role in 2016 after throwing 31.1 innings last season, including allowing no earned runs over 2.0 innings against Vanderbilt in the NCAA Super Regional.

The Illini open the 2016 season Feb. 19 at Tulane. 

Baseball America's Top Big Ten Prospects
No. 3 Cody Sedlock
No. 14 Jason Goldstein
No. 16 Adam Walton

Best Defensive Catcher: Jason Goldstein
Catcher/Best Arm: Jason Goldstein
Best Defensive Shortstop: Adam Walton

Player of the Year: Ryan Boldt (Nebraska)
Pitcher of the Year: Mike Shawaryn (Maryland)
Freshman of the Year: Jonathan Engelmann (Michigan)