Cruz Removed as USC Baseball Coach

Head USC baseball coach Frank Cruz has been removed from his position after he knowingly violated the Countable Athletically-Related Activities limit set by the NCAA.

USC Athletic Director Pat Haden, who announced the news on Wednesday, also mentioned that the University will carry out a self-imposed restriction of practice hours for the baseball team for the next two seasons. 

"Adhering to all NCAA is paramount for each one of our coaches, student-athletes and staff members," said Haden in a statement. "Those who knowingly break NCAA rules are subject to termination."

Cruz will be replaced by associate head coach Dan Hubbs, who is currently in his second season at USC. Before coming to Troy, Hubbs served as Cal's pitching coach for twelve years and spent seven years as a minor-league pitcher. 

"I'm confident that Dan Hubbs and his staff will lead our team to a successful season," said Haden. "Dan is a good coach, he is highly-regarded in the baseball community and he has strong Trojan roots."

Hubbs will help the team kick off its first game of the 2013 regular season this Friday at Cal State Fullerton.