Following an upsetting 2010 season, the University of Dayton baseball program is gearing up for Atlantic 10 Conference success in 2011.

After claiming the A-10 regular season title for the first time in 2009, the Flyers regressed last year despite being the preseason conference favorites. A disappointing final 23-32 record - including a 12-15 league mark - led to some harsh criticisms from head coach Tony Vittorio.

"Last year we did not handle the expectations that were in front of us," he said. "We got off plan of Dayton Flyer baseball because of the expectations, and pro scouts; we got outside of the [way we play]."

This season, Dayton begins with a set of four games against Lipscomb University and Bradley University on Friday, Feb. 18, through Sunday, Feb. 20, in Nashville, Tenn. The team is hopeful the past several months have led to an talent upgrade in areas that might have been missing last

"I think we've improved a lot this year," said senior catcher Dan Welch. "I think we've been working really, really hard all offseason; we filled some spots in the lineup that we may not have had last year, and I think we are going to do a lot better."

Coach Vittorio said he is not worried about the talent offensively this season. A mixture of new talent and old regulars highlight the Flyers lineup, led by reigning A-10 First-Team All-Conference performer junior infielder/outfielder Brian Blasik.

Junior transfer third baseman C.J. Gilman also received much hype from his coach and teammates, and the seniors are excited for some impressive slugging performances overall.

"I think everyone is improving every day, so I definitely think we're not going to have any trouble with the bats," Welch said.

In terms of pitching, Dayton returns all three weekend starters amidst a talented group of arms. Junior left-hander Cameron Hobson, who bypassed signing with the New York Yankees last summer, highlights the staff with junior right-handers Mike Hauschild and Burny Mitchem.

Welch said the team is much more mature with its daily preparations this season, while senior infielder Jimmy Roesinger compared the experienced leadership of this Flyers roster to the 2008 team. They both hope to leave a legacy of success in their Dayton careers, and are excited for the hope with the start of this spring schedule.

"I think that this year is our best opportunity," Roesinger said. " ... And I think it'd be great to go win the postseason tournament. Yeah that'd be great to win the regular season, and just to get to that regional [tournament] and to see what can happen. I think that's our ultimate goal."

The Flyers return to Time Warner Cable Stadium for their home opener against Shawnee State University on Tuesday, March 8.