Things Looking Up, Statistically Speaking

USC baseball was on the skids against top local competition earlier in the season but has seen a marked improvement, with a number of big wins against ranked teams. There are a lot of talented teams in Southern California, so that may explain why it took a little time. Here are some interesting stats from Heritage Hall:

• According to BoydsWorld.com, USC has the sixth-toughest schedule in the nation.... For USC’s 34 games this season, 20 have been against top 25 opponents; the Trojans are in the midst of nine straight games against top 25 teams.
• This season, USC has played 20 games against ranked opponents, with the Trojans posting an 8-12 record in those games.  After starting the season with an 0-7 mark against ranked teams, USC is 8-5 since then.

Also, here's what's up with Trojans in the majors:

• Brian Bannister (2000-03) was named A.L. Co-Player of the Week on April 14 after posting two victories for Kansas City. Bannister is 3-0 on the season with a 0.86 ERA.
• Chad Moeller (1994-96) was called up by the New York Yankees on April 14 to help with their catching depth.
• Moeller caught for another Trojan, Ian Kennedy (2004-06), while Morgan Ensberg (1995-98) played third base in the Yankees’ 8-7 win.