D1Baseball.com named FIU pitcher/first baseman Logan Allen the Conference USA Preseason Freshman of the Year in the publication's preseason preview. The Panthers, who were 31-27 last season, were picked to finish fourth in the league with Southern Miss tabbed as the top team in C-USA.

Allen was the 2017 Florida Gatorade Player of the Year after his senior season at University High. Last year in the state playoffs, Allen tossed a no-hitter in the semifinal and went 2 for 4 with a home run and four RBI in a 4-0 win.

Also being honored by D1Baseball was pitcher Andres Nunez as one of C-USA's 2018 Top Draft Prospects. Pitchers Nick MacDonald and Tyler Myrick, third baseman Austin Shenton and catcher Javier Valdes were listed among the 2019 Top Draft Prospects.

Allen and Christian Santana were named Impact Freshmen by the publication.

FIU opens the 2018 season at home against Missouri on Feb. 16. The Panthers and Tigers play a three-game series on opening weekend.