RH: Kocis' Returns Leads Experienced Lineup

Wichita State opens its third season under coach Eric Wedge at 6 p.m. (Friday) at Louisiana Tech.

The Shockers, 31-23 last season, are picked fourth in the American Athletic Conference. They start the season with 12 games away from Eck Stadium before opening at home against Oral Roberts on March 8.

Five questions as the Shockers get started:

Who are the newcomers to watch?

The Shockers brought in 12 transfers, six from NCAA Division I programs, and nine freshmen.

The spotlight first goes to the pitching rotation, where freshman Payton Tolle and sophomore transfer Will Stevens will start this weekend. Tolle, from Yukon, Okla., will also play first base or designated hitter to take advantage of…