March 12, 2012

LEXINGTON, Ky. — After improving to a nation-leading 16-0 with five wins last week, the Kentucky baseball team has climbed to No. 16 in the Collegiate Baseball top-30 poll and has made its season debut in the USA Today/ESPN coaches poll, checking in No. 20, it was announced on Monday morning.

Kentucky (16-0) moved from No. 23 in the Collegiate Baseball poll last Monday to No. 16 after the 5-0 week. The Wildcats made their season debut in the USA Today/ESPN coaches top-25 on Monday, with the No. 20 ranking.

The Wildcats are off to the third-best start in the over 100-year history of the program, leading the NCAA in wins, with its 16-game winning streak ranking as tops in the nation. UK is the only undefeated team remaining in college baseball among teams that have played at least four games.

UK start has been paced by a balanced approach, with its dynamic offense ranking among the league leader in nearly every category. The Wildcats lead the Southeastern Conference in average (.349), on-base percentage (.452), runs (147), hits (191), RBI (136), total bases (283) and hit batters (33). UK’s offense also ranks second in the league in slugging (.516), second in doubles (38), third in homers (16), second in walks (80) and fifth in stolen bases.

Kentucky returns to action with its final pre-SEC midweek games, hosting Wright State at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday at Cliff Hagan Stadium and Murray State on Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET. The Wildcats will then open SEC play with the two-time defending NCAA Champions, No. 2 South Carolina with a three-game set at Cliff Hagan Stadium.