Thursday 06/27/2013
Clemson’s NCAA Tournament HistoryThe 2013 season marked Clemson’s 38th trip to the NCAA Tournament dating back to the 1947 season. That year, Clemson actually advanced to the Final Eight of the NCAA Tournament, but it is not considered a College World Series season, because only two teams went to the CWS in those days.
Clemson won the 1947 District III Tournament in Charlotte by coming through the losers’ bracket. The Tigers, coached by Randy Hinson, lost in the first round to Alabama 8-2, then came back with a win over Auburn and two wins over Alabama to advance. Clemson’s season ended when Yale, led by future President George H.W. Bush, defeated the Tigers in New Haven, CT by a score of 7-3. Bush was 1-for-3 as the starting first-baseman.
Clemson made its first trip to Omaha and the College World Series in 1958 when the Tigers again came through the losers’ bracket. After losing to Florida in the first round, Clemson came back to defeat George Washington, Florida State, and Florida twice to advance under first year Head Coach Bill Wilhelm. Clemson defeated Florida 15-14 and 3-1 on June 9 to advance. Harold Stowe struck out 17 in that second game on June 9, and that is still a Clemson record for strikeouts in an NCAA Tournament game.
The Tigers advanced to Omaha in 1959, this time with three wins (one over Georgia Tech and two over Florida State). One of the wins over the Seminoles was a 24-2 victory at Gastonia, NC. That tally is still tied for the most runs scored by Clemson in an NCAA Tourney game.
The Tigers did not advance to Omaha again until 1976. In fact, Clemson made just one NCAA Tournament appearance between 1960 and 1974. That was in 1967 when Clemson reached the Regional Championship but lost to Auburn 6-5.
Clemson made it to Omaha three out of five years between 1976-80. Clemson won a regional in Columbia, SC in 1976 with three straight wins, then came through the losers’ bracket in Miami (FL) in 1977 to advance to Omaha. The 1980 season was the first year Clemson played host to a regional, as Clemson swept three games by scoring 45 runs, including 17 in a 17-12 win over South Carolina.
Clemson has been to the NCAA Tournament every year since 1987 except one (2008). The Tigers have been to the NCAA Tournament 26 of the last 27 years and has won at least one NCAA Tournament game in each of those 26 appearances, which is tied for the fourth-longest streak in NCAA history. Clemson also made College World Series trips in 1991, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2002, 2006, and 2010.
Overall, Clemson has been to a regional in 38 seasons (including 2013), fifth-most all-time. Clemson’s all-time record in NCAA Tournament play is 113-83, a 57.7 winning percentage.
Clemson is 68-43 (.613) under Head Coach Jack Leggett in NCAA Tournament play, including a 40-9 record (.816) in home NCAA Tourney games. Leggett has taken Clemson to a regional 19 times in the 20 years he has been Clemson’s head coach, and the Tigers have advanced to the College World Series six times. Leggett has also taken Clemson to a super regional nine of the 15 years that format has been in existence.Tigers Earned 38th NCAA Tournament BidClemson played in its 38th all-time NCAA Regional when it played in the Columbia (SC) Regional from May 31 to June 2 at Carolina Stadium. The 38 appearances are fifth-most in NCAA history, trailing only Texas (55), Florida State (51), Miami (FL) (42), and Oklahoma State (39).Columbia Regional RecapThe Tigers played in the 2013 Columbia Regional and went 1-2, finishing in third place behind regional champion South Carolina (3-0) and second-place Liberty (2-2). Clemson Saint Louis 10-2, but lost both of its games against the Flames.
Clemson batted .229 with a .343 slugging percentage and .289 on-base percentage in its three regional games. The team also totaled 14 runs, 24 hits, three doubles, three homers, seven walks, and one steal. Shane Kennedy (DH/UT) earned all-tournament honors as well.Clemson’s NCAA Tournament LeadersSteven Duggar led the Tigers in the Columbia Regional by going 6-for-13 (.462) with two doubles and two RBIs in three games. Shane Kennedy went 4-for-13 (.308) with one homer and two RBIs, while Steve Wilkerson hit two homers with five RBIs. In 3.2 innings pitched over two relief appearances, Kyle Schnell allowed just two hits and no runs.Worth Noting
PollsThe Tigers ended the year ranked #25 in the nation in the final USA Today coaches poll after going 1-2 in three games in the Columbia (SC) Regional. The Tigers were unranked in the final Baseball America rankings and Collegiate Baseball poll.
Clemson has had at least one final top-25 ranking in 16 of Jack Leggett‘s first 20 seasons as head coach in Tigertown. The Tigers have also been ranked #1 for 20 weeks by at least one of the three major polls under Leggett. Their last #1 ranking came on February 12, 2007 by both Baseball America and Collegiate Baseball.
Clemson has had at least one weekly top-25 ranking during all 20 of Leggett’s 20 seasons as well.ACC StandingsThe Tigers finished in third place in the ACC Atlantic Division standings with an 18-12 league record. Florida State finished in first place in the division with a 20-10 record, while N.C. State was second at 19-10. North Carolina finished atop the ACC Coastal Division standings as well as the overall ACC standings at 21-7.
In the overall ACC standings, Clemson finished in fifth place. It was the 19th time in 20 seasons under Head Coach Jack Leggett that the Tigers had a winning league record.Clemson #7 in the Nation in Average Home AttendanceA total of 147,296 fans were in attendance for Clemson’s 31 home dates in 2013, an average of 4,751 per date. That figure was #7 in the nation and best in the ACC in 2013. It was also the second-best figure in Tiger history for a season. Through the 2013 season, Clemson has had a top-20 national figure in attendance for 20 straight seasons and a top-10 national figure in attendance for 12 years in a row.30That’s how many of Clemson’s 62 games were against teams that played in the 2013 NCAA Tournament, which equates to 48 percent. Clemson had a 12-18 record against teams in the field. The Tigers played 10 different teams that were in the NCAA Tournament.
Clemson played three of the eight national seeds in North Carolina, Virginia, and Florida State for a total of 10 games. The Tigers were 3-7 in those 10 contests. The Tigers were 6-11 against #1 seeds, 3-4 against #2 seeds, 2-3 against #3 seeds, and 1-0 against #4 seeds.NCAA Stat FinishesClemson finished in the top 25 in the nation in two statistical categories in 2013. The Tigers were 16th in stolen bases (111) and 25th stolen bases per game (1.79).Strength of Schedule #13In 2013, Clemson had an unofficial strength of schedule of #13 according to WarrenNolan.com. There were 298 schools that played Division I baseball in 2013.Winning Seasons the NormThe Tigers have had a winning record every year since 1965. And with its 40-22 record in 2013, Clemson had a winning record for the 49th season in a row. That 49-year streak spans just two head coaches, Bill Wilhelm (29 seasons) and Jack Leggett (20 seasons).
Clemson’s 49-year streak with a winning record is the third-longest active streak in the nation, trailing two other ACC schools. Florida State has had a winning record in each of the last 66 seasons dating to the program’s inception in 1948. Miami (FL) is second with a 56-year streak.
Clemson has also had a non-losing record, which includes seasons with equal number of wins and losses, every season since 1958, a year after going 6-12 in 1957. Wilhelm took over as head coach of the Tiger program in 1958, therefore the Tigers have not had a losing record since he took over. Clemson had a 13-13 record in 1964.
The Tigers’ 56-year streak of non-losing records is tied for the second-longest active streak in the nation, trailing only Florida State (66), while Clemson is tied with Miami (FL).Tigers Rode 11-Game Winning StreakSaddled with a 16-11 overall record and 5-6 ACC mark, Clemson broke through with a dramatic 5-4 win in 11 innings at #1 North Carolina on April 1. That victory started Clemson’s 11-game winning streak, its longest winning streak since winning 17 consecutive games in 2006 from April 22 to May 25.
During the 11-game winning streak, which saw the Tigers win six games on the road and eight ACC contests, Clemson hit .289 with a .372 on-base percentage thanks to 54 walks against only 58 strikeouts. The Tigers averaged just 5.4 runs per game during the streak, but they were 5-0 in one-run games, 2-0 in two-run games, and 2-0 in three-run games, meaning nine of the 11 wins were by three runs or less. The Tiger pitching staff had a 1.83 ERA and .214 opponents’ batting average in those 11 contests as well.
From May 6-16, the Tigers had a nine-game winning streak as well.Only Needed OneIn a seven-game span from April 7-19, Clemson won three games by a score of 1-0. That was a remarkable feat in such a short period time considering those gave the Tigers just 30 all-time wins by a score of 1-0. Clemson won games by that score at Boston College on April 7, against Wake Forest at home on April 13, and at Miami (FL) on April 19 as a part of its 11-game winning streak.
The victory at Boston College was Clemson’s first by a score of 1-0 since May 16, 2006, when the Tigers defeated College of Charleston at home.
Clemson’s three 1-0 victories in April came in a seven-game span. In its previous 1,403 games (from March 5, 1992 to April 6, 2013), the Tigers had just three 1-0 wins.
The three 1-0 wins in one season tied the school record, previously established by the 1979 team. All three of the 1-0 wins in 2013 were in ACC regular-season games. Prior to 2013, Clemson had just two 1-0 wins in an ACC regular-season game in history. Those 1-0 ACC regular-season wins came at South Carolina in the first game of a doubleheader on May 7, 1968 and against Maryland at home on April 19, 1980.Seven Wins in Seven DaysClemson won seven games in seven days from May 6-12. The Tigers swept a pair of doubleheaders during the stretch, one over Maryland on May 6 and one at Furman on May 8. Clemson completed the week with a three-game sweep of Georgia Southern from May 10-12.
It marked the first time Clemson won seven games in a seven-day period since March 3-9, 1994. During that stretch, Clemson outscored the opposition 60-29.
Overall, Clemson has won at least seven games in seven days 14 times, but this was the first time Clemson did it in the month of May.
The first time it was accomplished came from March 14-19, 1970, when Head Coach Bill Wilhelm’s team posted a 7-1 record in that six-day period. From February 24-28, 1982, a five-day period, Clemson had a 7-0 record and outscored the opposition 55-20. That is the only time Clemson has won seven games in five days.
The most wins in a seven-day period in Clemson history took place from March 1-7, 1987, when the Tigers posted an 8-1 record.Tigers Led the ACC in Stolen BasesClemson led the ACC in stolen bases with 111 in 62 games, good for 1.8 steals per game. The Tigers finished one steal ahead of second-place N.C. State, who had 110 stolen bases. Clemson was also 16th in the nation in stolen bases. That is despite no Tiger totaling more than 22 steals in 2013. Five different Tigers, Shane Kennedy (22), Thomas Brittle (19), Steven Duggar (15), Jay Baum (10), and Steve Wilkerson (10), had double-digit steals. Nine Tigers had at least six steals as well.
The team’s season total made a drastic jump during the second half of the season. In the first 28 games, Clemson had 36 steals (1.3 per game). But in the last 34 games, the Tigers had 75 steals (2.2 per game).
The 111 stolen bases were the most by a Tiger team since 2000, when Clemson had 112 steals in 69 games.Best Team ERA Since 1996Clemson’s 3.21 ERA in 2013 was its best mark since 1996, when the likes of righthanders Kris Benson and Billy Koch led the Tigers to the College World Series with a 3.03 ERA. Clemson had the 3.21 ERA despite not having a First-Team All-ACC pitcher. All 14 Tigers who made an appearance on the mound had a 5.34 ERA or better. The 3.21 ERA was also the second-best mark under Head Coach Jack Leggett.Eight ShutoutsThe Clemson pitching staff accumulated eight shutouts in 2013, its highest total since it had 10 shutouts in the 1996 season. Only one of the eight shutouts saw a Tiger pitch a complete game, therefore seven of the eight shutouts were team shutouts.
The school record for shutouts in a season is 11, set by the 1977 team. Clemson’s eight shutouts in 2013 tied for fourth-most in Tiger history.Tiger Freshmen Had 16 WinsOne of the keys to Clemson’s 40-win season was the performance of the freshman pitchers. As a group, the five freshman hurlers (Jackson Campana, Matthew Crownover, Zack Erwin, Brody Koerner, Clate Schmidt) were a combined 16-10 for the season with a 3.55 ERA over 225.1 innings pitched. That equates to 40 percent of the team’s wins and 40 percent of the team’s innings pitched.
The 16 victories were fourth-most in Clemson history. The record is held by the 1997 freshmen that had a combined record of 27-13. Leading the way was Ryan Mottl, who had a 10-3 record, still the most wins by a Tiger freshman in one season.
The 1994 freshman staff, led by Kris Benson, had a 21-6 record, while the 1969 staff, led by Dave Van Volkenburg (9-4) and Rusty Gerhardt (7-3), was 19-8. The 2013 freshman group was fourth-best thanks to Crownover’s 7-3 mark and Erwin’s 5-2 record. Crownover’s seven wins tied for fourth-most in Clemson history by a freshman.Pitching Staff’s 13-Game StreakClemson allowed three earned runs or less in 13 straight games from February 17 to March 13. That 13-game streak included six games against top-10 teams (three games each against #7 South Carolina and #8 N.C. State), only one of which was at Doug Kingsmore Stadium. The 13-game streak was Clemson’s longest since 2006, when it had a 13-game streak from April 30 to May 25.Five Tigers on All-ACC Academic TeamClemson placed five players on the 2013 All-ACC Academic team. The five selections tied for second-most in the ACC behind Florida State, who had six selections. To be eligible for consideration, a student-athlete must have earned a 3.0 GPA for the previous semester and maintained a 3.0 cumulative GPA during his academic career.
Three Tigers earned All-ACC Academic honors for the second time, senior outfielder Thomas Brittle (community recreation, sport, & camp management), junior righthander Matt Campbell (community recreation, sport, & camp management), and senior righthander Jonathan Meyer (management). Freshman lefthander Matthew Crownover (communication studies) and freshman outfielder Steven Duggar (community recreation, sport, & camp management) were named to the All-ACC Academic team for the first time.Firth Picked in Major League DraftSenior righthander Scott Firth was the lone Tiger selected in the 2013 Major League Draft from June 6-8. He was taken with the #559 overall pick by the Colorado Rockies. Firth had a 6-5 record, four saves, and a 3.23 ERA in 61.1 innings pitched over 19 appearances (six starts) in 2013.
With the one selection, Jack Leggett has had a total of 96 players drafted in his 20 seasons as head coach at Clemson. A total of 18 of those 96 players were drafted twice, meaning a Tiger has been drafted 114 times in his tenure. Fourteen more Tigers have signed a free-agent contract as well.Five Tiger Players Received Degrees on May 10Five Tiger players graduated on May 10 in commencement ceremonies in Littlejohn Coliseum, outfielder Thomas Brittle (community recreation, sport, & camp management), righthander Scott Firth (sociology), righthander Mike Kent (management), righthander Jonathan Meyer (management), and lefthander Joseph Moorefield (community recreation, sport, & camp management). Former Tiger players and 2013 Student Assistant Coaches Brad Chalk (sport management) and Stephen Faris (sport management) also graduated on May 10.Three Tigers Named to All-ACC TeamThree Tigers were named Second-Team All-ACC in 2013, sophomore righthander Daniel Gossett, junior utility player Shane Kennedy, and junior infielder Steve Wilkerson. The team was compiled by a vote of the 12 ACC head coaches.
Gossett had a 10-4 record, 2.56 ERA, and .213 opponents’ batting average along with 91 strikeouts against 38 walks in 98.1 innings pitched over 16 starts. Kennedy hit a team-best .317 with five homers, four triples, five doubles, 35 RBIs, 47 runs, a .408 on-base percentage, and 22 steals in his first season as a Tiger. Wilkerson, who was a Second-Team All-ACC selection in 2012, batted .291 with four homers, two triples, a team-high 16 doubles, 37 RBIs, and 10 steals.Crownover, Duggar Earned Freshman All-America HonorsLefthander Matthew Crownover and outfielder Steven Duggar both received freshman All-America honors by Collegiate Baseball. Clemson placed multiple players on a freshman All-America team for the first time since 2005, when Brad Chalk and Taylor Harbin both received freshman All-America accolades.
Crownover had a 7-3 record and a team-best 2.19 ERA along with 45 strikeouts against only 17 walks in 70.0 innings pitched over 15 appearances (14 starts) in 2013. In ACC games, he had a 3-2 record and an ACC-best 1.73 ERA.
Duggar batted .300 with a team-high 75 hits, 10 doubles, two triples, two homers, 30 RBIs, 15 steals, and a team-high nine outfield assists. He was one of three Tigers to start all 62 games as well.Leggett Leading a Consistent WinnerHead Coach Jack Leggett has an 887-426-1 (.675) record at Clemson in his 20th season. The late Bill Wilhelm has the most wins of any Tiger coach with 1,161 in 36 seasons (1958-93) at Clemson. Leggett’s 887 wins are second-most in school history. No other Clemson coach has more than 70 wins while in Tigertown. Leggett earned win #800 as the leader of the Tiger program in Clemson’s 12-0 victory over Gardner-Webb in the second game of a doubleheader on May 7, 2011.
Through Leggett’s first 20 seasons at Clemson, he has 887 wins. Only five other programs (Florida State, Rice, Wichita State, Louisiana State, Cal State Fullerton) have more wins over that span from 1994-13. Leggett has also directed the Tigers to a winning record in ACC regular-season games in 19 of his 20 seasons as head coach at Clemson.
What makes Leggett’s win total even more impressive is the fact that he has not shied away from playing stiff competition. Since 2004, when the strength of schedule ratings were first kept at WarrenNolan.com, Clemson’s schedule has been one of the 17 toughest in the nation during all 10 seasons (2004 (#5), 2005 (#4), 2006 (#1), 2007 (#17), 2008 (#2), 2009 (#9), 2010 (#5), 2011 (#6), 2012 (#6), 2013 (#13)).Leggett #11 on All-Time NCAA Wins ListJack Leggett has 1,264 career wins in 34 seasons as a head coach. That victory total is #11 on the all-time NCAA Division I list. He is four wins shy of moving into sole possession of 10th place ahead of Ron Fraser, who had 1,267 career wins. Leggett reached the 1,200-win mark in Clemson’s 4-2 win over Elon in Greenville, SC on March 21, 2012.
Leggett passed the late Bill Wilhelm, who is tied for 18th place with 1,161 wins in 36 seasons (1958-93) as Clemson’s head coach, on April 6, 2011 in the Tigers’ 12-3 win over Western Carolina. Leggett is also fifth in wins among active coaches.Tigers Have 231 Top-25 Wins Under LeggettIn 20 seasons at Clemson, Head Coach Jack Leggett has 231 wins over teams ranked in the top 25 among his 887 total victories. Clemson defeated #7 South Carolina once, #8 N.C. State twice on the road, #12 Virginia once, #1 North Carolina once on the road, #19 Georgia Tech twice, and #8 Florida State once on the road earlier this season, giving him eight top-25 wins in 2013.Leggett To Be Inducted Into ABCA Hall of FameHead Coach Jack Leggett will be inducted into the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame on January 3, 2014 in Dallas, TX. Leggett will join six other inductees during ABCA’s annual convention.
“It’s a great honor to be recognized in this way,” said Leggett. “It’s a great compliment to all the players and coaches who I’ve worked with in the past. It’s a culmination of a lot of hard work, both on and off the field. I want to thank everyone who has been involved along the way. I would like to accept this honor on behalf of The University of Vermont, Western Carolina University, and Clemson University.”Andrews Found Home in BullpenSophomore righthander Patrick Andrews (Hilton Head Island, SC) started the season in the weekend rotation, but after his first start, he moved to the bullpen. After that move, he was one of the team’s best pitchers. He gave up four runs on five hits in 3.0 innings pitched in his lone start against William & Mary on February 16. But in his 22 appearances after the move, all out of the bullpen, he was 1-0 with a team-best 2.08 ERA in 34.2 innings pitched. He gave up just 25 hits (.200 opponents’ batting average) and nine walks with 22 strikeouts in those 22 relief outings.
On the season, Andrews was 1-1 with a 2.87 ERA and .217 opponents’ batting average in 37.2 innings pitched over 23 appearances (one start). In ACC regular-season games, he pitched 14.1 innings over 10 relief appearances and allowed just 11 hits (.212 opponents’ batting average), four runs (2.51 ERA), and three walks with eight strikeouts.Baum Did the Little ThingsSophomore utility player Jay Baum (Alpharetta, GA) did the little things to contribute to Clemson’s success in 2013. He had 10 stolen bases and five sacrifice bunts. Baum also made many highlight-reel plays at third base and had a .932 fielding percentage thanks to committing only eight errors in 117 chances.Boulware Caught FireSophomore catcher Garrett Boulware (Anderson, SC) entered the 2013 season with a .214 career batting average in 56 at-bats. But in 2013, he caught fire at the plate and was one of the team’s best hitters. Boulware hit .308 with 12 doubles, one triple, eight homers, 45 RBIs, and 43 runs. He led the team in home runs, RBIs, and slugging percentage.
For his efforts, he was added to the Johnny Bench Award Watch List. He was also named a semifinalist for the Gregg Olson Award. That award goes to the “Breakout Player-of-the-Year.”
At #8 N.C. State on March 8, Boulware erupted for two home runs, the first two long balls of his career. He went 4-for-5 with two homers, five RBIs, and three runs in Clemson’s 10-5 win in Raleigh. His first homer of the game was a three-run shot that broke a 4-4 tie. It also came off lefthander Carlos Rodon.
Eight days later against #12 Virginia, he went 3-for-5 with a homer, triple, four RBIs, and two runs in Clemson’s 7-6 win. With the score tied in the ninth inning, he stepped to the plate with the bases loaded and two outs. He delivered a walkoff single to the gap in right-center to give Clemson the dramatic victory.
Boulware was also named to the All-ACC Tournament team as the catcher. He went 4-for-13 (.308) with a homer and double in three games at Durham (NC) Bulls Athletic Park.Boulware a Triple ThreatCatcher Garrett Boulware led the team in homers (8) and RBIs (45) and finished second on the team in batting average (.308) in 2013 a year after serving as a backup most of the 2012 season. He was only nine points out of first place on the team in batting average, while he led the team in homers by three and RBIs by eight.
No Tiger has won the team “Triple Crown” since 2009, when Ben Paulsen (.367 batting average, 13 homers, 61 RBIs) did so. However, Paulsen tied for the team lead in homers with Jeff Schaus. The last Tiger to win the team “Triple Crown” outright in all three categories was Khalil Greene (.470 batting average, 27 homers, 91 RBIs) in 2002. No Tiger catcher has ever won the team “Triple Crown.”
For his efforts, Boulware received the Mitchell Award as Clemson’s most valuable player.Boulware Earned ACC Weekly HonorGarrett Boulware received ACC Co-Player-of-the-Week honors for his performance in five games from March 19-23. It was the first time he won ACC Player-of-the-Week honors in his career. Boulware, who had multiple hits in four of the five games, went 8-for-16 (.500) with one homer, eight RBIs, three runs, and three walks to lead the Tigers to four wins.Bradley’s First Career Homer a Memorable OneFreshman utility player Kevin Bradley (Pennington, NJ) made a last-minute start at first base against USC Upstate on May 14 due to Jon McGibbon‘s illness. The switch-hitter only had two career RBIs entering the game, but he stepped up and played a big role in Clemson’s 8-7 win.
With one out in the ninth inning and Clemson trailing 7-5, he hit the first pitch over the fence in left field for a three-run, walkoff homer. It was his first career home run, as he became the fifth Tiger in history and the first Tiger since 1988 to have his first career long ball be in walkoff fashion. It capped an outstanding game for Bradley, who went 2-for-3 with a homer, three RBIs, two runs, one walk, and one hit-by-pitch.Brittle Broke OutSenior outfielder Thomas Brittle (Cross, SC) was one of Clemson’s most valuable players the past two seasons due to his ability to track down balls in centerfield and come up with clutch hits, including 2012 when he was a Second-Team All-ACC selection. In 2013, he kept up his level of production and had 44 runs and 19 steals. He also reached base via a hit or walk in each of the last 20 games, a season-long on-base streak by a Tiger.
Brittle did what no Tiger had done in years at #8 Florida State on May 16. With two outs in the third inning and a runner on base, he hit a liner to left-center. Centerfielder Seth Miller made a diving attempt, but could not make the catch and the ball bounced well behind him. Brittle raced around the bases for an inside-the-park home run.
In his two seasons in a Tiger uniform, he hit .282 with 14 doubles, nine triples, four homers, 62 RBIs, 87 runs, a .378 on-base percentage and 34 steals in 119 games (117 starts).Campbell ClosedJunior righthander Matt Campbell (Alpharetta, GA) was having an outstanding 2012 campaign before suffering a season-ending arm injury at Georgia Tech on April 27. He fully recovered from that injury and served as Clemson’s predominant closer in 2013, where he had a team-high seven saves in a team-tying-high 24 appearances, all in relief. In 28.0 innings pitched, he was 1-1 with a 4.82 ERA, a team-best .192 opponents’ batting average, and 35 strikeouts against 13 walks.
In his three-year career, the hard-thrower is 3-3 with 11 saves, a 3.52 ERA, and .187 opponents’ batting average in 76.2 innings pitched over 53 relief appearances. He has also totaled 89 strikeouts, good for a 10.45 strikeout-per-nine-innings-pitched mark.Costigan One of the Top Tigers Off the BenchJunior outfielder Joe Costigan (Naples, FL) made the most of his limited opportunities in 2013. He was 12-for-49 (.245) with five doubles, one triple, six RBIs, five runs, eight walks, one hit-by-pitch, and a .362 on-base percentage in 27 games (11 starts). Clemson had a 10-1 record in his 11 starts as well.
In the Boston College series in Chestnut Hill from April 5-7, he went 4-for-8 with three doubles, four RBIs, and a walk in three games (two starts) to help the Tigers to a sweep. In game-one, he hit a three-run double in the seventh inning in Clemson’s 7-5 victory.Crownover CoronationFreshman lefthander Matthew Crownover (Ringgold, GA) made an immediate impact for the Tigers in 2013 just over a year after undergoing “Tommy John” surgery. He was Clemson’s top midweek starter during the first half of the season and made his first-ever weekend start at #1 North Carolina on April 1, a game Clemson won 5-4 in 11 innings.
Crownover, who was a freshman All-American by Collegiate Baseball, was 7-3 with a team-best 2.19 ERA and .249 opponents’ batting average. In 70.0 innings pitched over 14 starts and one relief appearance, he totaled 45 strikeouts against only 17 walks. Crownover became the first freshman to lead Clemson in ERA since 2003. In 42.2 innings pitched over his last eight starts, he was 4-3 and allowed just six earned runs (1.27 ERA).
Pitching away from home for the first time in his career and in his home state, he tossed 5.0 strong innings in a starting role at Georgia to earn the win in Clemson’s 9-1 victory on March 26. He gave up just four hits, one run, and two walks with four strikeouts.
On April 7, he tossed 6.1 scoreless innings of four-hit ball to earn the win in Clemson’s 1-0 victory at Boston College. In his next start against Wake Forest on April 13, he pitched 5.1 scoreless innings in the Tigers’ 1-0 win. That gave him back-to-back victories in 1-0 Clemson wins.
For his leadership and perseverance, Crownover received the team’s Tiger Baseball Award.Crownover Led ACC in ERA in League GamesMatthew Crownover did what few freshmen in ACC history have done … lead the ACC in ERA in league games. In 36.1 innings pitched over seven starts, he had a 1.73 ERA, allowing only seven earned runs. That included giving up only four combined earned runs in his last six starts in ACC regular-season games.Crownover Named ACC Pitcher-of-the-WeekFreshman lefthander Matthew Crownover was named ACC Pitcher-of-the-Week on May 13 for his two starts the previous week. He earned two victories by tossing 13.0 scoreless innings, allowing just seven hits (six singles, one double), a .159 opponents’ batting average, no runs, and four walks with 10 strikeouts.
In the second game of a doubleheader against Maryland on May 6, he pitched 6.0 scoreless innings of four-hit ball. Then on just four days rest against Georgia Southern on May 11, he pitched 7.0 scoreless innings of three-hit ball with eight strikeouts. Against the Eagles, he did not allow a baserunner to advance past second base.Duggar Dug in in Right FieldFreshman outfielder Steven Duggar (Moore, SC) was the everyday starter in right field in 2013. And there was good reason why. Besides the fact that he was one of the team’s most consistent hitters, he had a team-high nine outfield assists thanks to his strong right arm. He also had 124 putouts while committing only one error.
On the season, Duggar, who was a freshman All-American by Collegiate Baseball, hit .300 with 10 doubles, two triples, two homers, 30 RBIs, and 39 runs in starting all 62 games.
With the score tied 4-4 and two outs in the 11th inning against Wake Forest on April 14, he belted a two-run, walkoff homer to right field to give Clemson a 6-4 win. It was his first career long ball at Doug Kingsmore Stadium.Erwin EmergedFreshman Zack Erwin (Duluth, GA) was one of only three lefthanders on the 2013 team and was one of the team’s top pitchers for Associate Head Coach Dan Pepicelli‘s pitching staff. In 60.0 innings pitched over 22 appearances (six starts), he was 5-2 with two saves, a 3.45 ERA, and .248 opponents’ batting average. He gave up just 53 hits and 20 walks with 32 strikeouts.
Erwin earned his first career victory against #12 Virginia on March 16 in Clemson’s dramatic 7-6 walkoff win. He pitched the final 5.0 innings and allowed just one hit, one run, and one walk with three strikeouts. Seven days later in the first game of a doubleheader against Duke, he tossed 4.1 scoreless innings in relief to earn the win.
In his first career start against Western Carolina on April 24 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium, he tossed 5.0 strong innings to earn the win. He gave up just four hits, one run, and one walk with four strikeouts against a team that entered the week in the top 10 in the nation in several offensive statistical categories.Firth Made the Most of His Senior SeasonSenior righthander Scott Firth (Buffalo Grove, IL) saw action as both a starter and reliever during his four seasons at Clemson. Earlier in 2013, he was in the weekend rotation. But during the middle of the season, he moved into the back end of the bullpen.
In 61.1 innings pitched over 13 relief appearances and six starts, Firth was 6-5 with four saves, a 3.23 ERA, and 41 strikeouts against only 18 walks. In his 13 appearances out the bullpen, he allowed 23 hits (.250 opponents’ batting average), seven earned runs (2.49 ERA), and nine walks with 18 strikeouts in 25.1 innings pitched.
In his best outing of the season, he entered a tight game at #1 North Carolina and pitched 4.2 scoreless innings of three-hit ball to earn the win in Clemson’s 5-4 victory in 11 innings. In the eighth, 10th, and 11th innings, he stranded runners at second and third without allowing a run. That win started Clemson’s 11-game winning streak.
In his four-year career, Firth had a 17-7 record with seven saves, a 2.94 ERA, and .256 opponents’ batting average in 195.2 innings pitched over 75 appearances (17 starts).Gibson Provided Late-Season SparkFreshman outfielder Maleeke Gibson (Sumter, SC) came on late in the season to provide a spark in the Tiger lineup. He played 19 of the last 21 games with 15 starts and was 18-for-67 (.269) with 14 RBIs, 16 runs, and seven steals in those 19 games.
Overall, he hit .227 with three doubles, 16 RBIs, 20 runs, and eight stolen bases in 40 games (26 starts). In the doubleheader at Furman on May 8, he went 4-for-10 with four RBIs and three steals.Gossett Led RotationIn 2013, sophomore righthander Daniel Gossett (Lyman, SC) picked up where he left off in 2012 when he was the team’s best pitcher during the latter stages of his freshman campaign. He became the first freshman righthander to lead Clemson in strikeouts since 1997 when he totaled 87 on the season.
In 2013, Gossett was the Friday starter for the weekend rotation. The Second-Team All-ACC selection was 10-4 with a 2.56 ERA and allowed only 78 hits (.213 opponents’ batting average) and 38 walks with 91 strikeouts in 98.1 innings pitched over 16 starts.
Gossett earned the win at #8 N.C. State on March 8 in a head-to-head matchup with Carlos Rodon. In that game, he allowed just five hits and two earned runs with nine strikeouts in 6.2 innings pitched. Then at Miami (FL) on April 19, he pitched 7.0 scoreless innings of three-hit ball with 10 strikeouts to earn the win in Clemson’s 1-0 victory. He also gave up just five hits and one run in 7.0 innings pitched to earn the win against #19 Georgia Tech and its high-powered offense on April 26.
In his career, Gossett is 16-7 with two saves, a 3.34 ERA, and .216 opponents’ batting average along with 178 strikeouts in 175.1 innings pitched over 35 appearances (26 starts). His 9.14 strikeouts-per-nine-innings-pitched mark is ninth-best in school history.Gossett Recorded Double-Digit WinsDaniel Gossett recorded his 10th win of the season in Clemson’s 10-2 win over Saint Louis in the Columbia Regional on June 1. He became the first Tiger with double-digit victories in a season since 2002, when righthanders Matt Henrie and Steve Reba both totaled 13 wins. That means Clemson went 10 years in a row from 2003-12 without a Tiger registering 10 victories in a season.
Gossett became the 18th Tiger in history to record double-digit wins. Brian Barnes did it three times, while Andy Taulbee, Ryan Mottl, and Reba all did it twice. Therefore, it was the 23rd time in history that a Tiger registered double-digit victories in one season.
For his efforts, he received the 2013 Stowe Award as Clemson’s most valuable pitcher. Gossett also received the team’s Dedication Award for his outstanding work in the strength training room.Gossett Held His Own on FridaysIn many head-to-head matchups on Fridays against some of the best starting pitchers in the ACC, Daniel Gossett held his own. In his 10 ACC starts, all in game-one of series, he was 7-2 with a 2.67 ERA and .225 opponents’ batting average in 60.2 innings pitched. He had wins over #8 N.C. State, Duke, Boston College, Wake Forest, Miami (FL), #19 Georgia Tech, and #8 Florida State. He would have had another win against #12 Virginia, but with Gossett out of the game, the Tigers squandered a three-run lead in the ninth inning.
Top-ranked North Carolina touched Gossett up for eight runs on 10 hits in 3.0 innings pitched on March 30. In his nine other ACC starts, he was 7-1 with a 1.56 ERA and .197 opponents’ batting average.Gossett Delivered Goose EggDaniel Gossett delivered against Duke at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on March 22 when he did what no Tiger had done since 2008 … pitch a shutout. In 9.0 innings pitched, he gave up just five hits, no runs, and no walks with three strikeouts in Clemson’s 7-0 victory over the Blue Devils. He also retired the first 13 batters of the game.
It was the first shutout by a Tiger since March 23, 2008, when righthander Graham Stoneburner pitched a two-hit shutout in Clemson’s 2-0 win over N.C. State at Doug Kingsmore Stadium. It was also the first complete game by a Tiger since 2011.Gossett Named ACC Pitcher-of-the-WeekDaniel Gossett was named ACC Pitcher-of-the-Week for his performance at #8 Florida State on May 16. He allowed three hits (all singles), no runs, and three walks with three strikeouts in 6.0 innings pitched to earn the win in Clemson’s 8-2 victory over the Seminoles.Kennedy Reached BaseJunior Shane Kennedy (Orlando, FL) made an immediate impact in his first season as a Tiger. Batting in the heart of the lineup, he hit .317 with five homers, four triples, five doubles, 35 RBIs, 47 runs, and 22 steals in starting all 62 games. He also had a .408 on-base percentage thanks to 37 walks. Kennedy led the team or tied for the team lead in batting average, games, starts, runs, triples, walks, on-base percentage, steals, and multi-hit games (23).
Kennedy, who was named Second-Team All-ACC, had an 11-game hitting streak from April to May, the longest hitting streak by a Tiger in 2013. During the streak, he was 17-for-39 (.436) with two homers, one triple, 10 RBIs, 15 runs, eight walks against only four strikeouts, a .532 on-base percentage, and seven steals. Kennedy also earned Columbia Regional All-Tournament honors by going 4-for-13 (.308) with one homer, two RBIs, and two runs in three games.Kent ControlJunior righthander Mike Kent (Springfield, VA) was one of the team’s top long relievers in 2013. That was thanks in large part to his excellent control. In 18.2 innings pitched over 13 relief appearances, he was 1-1 with a 3.38 ERA and allowed just two walks against 12 strikeouts. In the last two seasons, Kent issued only 12 walks in 57.0 innings pitched, good for a 1.89 walks-per-nine-innings-pitched mark.Koerner Another Freshman ContributorRighthander Brody Koerner (Concord, NC) joined Jackson Campana, Matthew Crownover, Zack Erwin, and Clate Schmidt as freshmen who made a significant contribution to Clemson’s 3.21 team ERA in 2013. In 29.1 innings pitched over 10 appearances (five starts), Koerner had a 3.99 ERA with 28 strikeouts as one of the team’s top midweek starters. He held the opposition to a .222 batting average, including a .189 batting average with runners on base.
In his first career start away from home in the first game of a doubleheader at Furman on May 8, he tossed 6.0 scoreless innings of one-hit ball with seven strikeouts to earn the win.Krieger Stepped Right in at Shortstop as a FreshmanFreshman Tyler Krieger (Johns Creek, GA) stepped right in to be the everyday starter at shortstop, as he started all 62 games there. He was steady in the field, committing only 12 errors for a solid .958 fielding percentage. At the plate, he batted .257 with 10 doubles, one triple, 27 RBIs, 28 runs, and nine steals.
With the Tigers trailing 4-3 in the eighth inning against Presbyterian College on April 10, the switch-hitter led off with a triple and scored the tying run on a wild pitch. Then with two outs in the ninth inning and the score tied, he lined an 0-2 pitch down the right-field line for a walkoff single to give Clemson a 5-4 victory.
Krieger hit his second walkoff single of the season against #19 Georgia Tech in the second game of a doubleheader on April 26. With two outs in the 11th inning, he lined a 2-2 pitch down the left-field line for a single to give Clemson a 4-3 victory against his home-state team. It was part of his outstanding series, as he was 7-for-12 (.583) with four RBIs, three runs, and four walks against no strikeouts.McGibbon Strong in the FieldJunior first-baseman Jon McGibbon (Lindenhurst, NY) saved many errors for his fellow infielders with his ability to scoop low throws out of the dirt in 2013. He started 58 games at first base and committed just one error in 562 chances, good for a stellar .998 fielding percentage.
At the plate, he raised his batting average to .285 thanks to going 25-for-59 (.424) with one double, 15 RBIs, 13 runs, 10 walks and three hit-by-pitches against only six strikeouts, a .521 on-base percentage, and four steals in his last 18 games. McGibbon also had 37 RBIs, tied for second-most on the team, and seven stolen bases.
In the second game of a doubleheader at Furman on May 8, he went 4-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs. In the doubleheader, he went 5-for-6 with one double, four RBIs, five runs, and two walks. Then in the series at #8 Florida State from May 16-18, he went 6-for-10 (.600).Meyer a Familiar Face on the MoundSenior righthander Jonathan Meyer (San Diego, CA) was a regular presence on the mound for the Tigers the past four seasons. He made 86 career appearances, fifth-most in school history, while his 70 career relief appearances were ninth-most in Tiger history. His 2.26 walks-per-nine-innings-pitched mark was eighth-best in school history as well.
In 207.1 innings pitched over 86 appearances (16 starts) in his career, he was 11-8 with four saves, a 3.86 ERA, and 161 strikeouts against only 52 walks. In 46.2 innings pitched over 19 appearances (three starts) in 2013, he issued just seven walks against 37 strikeouts.Meyer Exhibited Stellar ControlRighthander Jonathan Meyer issued only seven walks against 37 strikeouts in 46.2 innings pitched over 19 appearances (three starts) in 2013. He also had a 2-0 record and a 3.28 ERA and one of Clemson’s best long relievers and spot starters. His 1.35 walks-per-nine-innings-pitched mark was third-best in school history, while his 5.29 strikeout-to-walk ratio tied for fourth-best in Tiger history.Moorefield a Lefty SpecialistSenior lefthander Joseph Moorefield (Woodruff, SC) appeared in 15 games on the mound, all out of the bullpen, and pitched 5.1 innings. He was effective getting out lefthanded batters, as he gave up just one earned run (1.69 ERA) in 2013. Moorefield made 64 relief appearances in his career as well.Schmidt Worked For the WeekendFreshman righthander Clate Schmidt (Acworth, GA) was one of many highly-touted newcomers who made a big impact in 2013. He made his first career appearance out of the bullpen when he faced William & Mary on February 16, but also made most of his starts in the weekend rotation, a rare feat for a freshman.
In 11 starts and five relief appearances, he was 3-4 in 55.2 innings pitched. Clemson had a 7-4 record in his 11 starts, which included team wins over #7 South Carolina, #8 N.C. State, and #12 Virginia.
Against #7 South Carolina at Fluor Field in Greenville, SC on March 2, he tossed 7.0 strong innings to earn the win. He gave up just five hits, two runs, and three walks with five strikeouts in the Tigers’ 6-3 victory. For his efforts, he received the Bob Bradley Award as Clemson’s MVP of the three-game series with the Gamecocks. He became the first freshman to win the award since 2007 and the first pitcher to win the award since 2006.Schnell Stellar From the SideSophomore righthander Kyle Schnell (Alpharetta, GA) was in his first season at Clemson in 2013 after transferring from Lake Sumter (FL) Community College. He was one of the team’s best relievers thanks in large part to his sidearm delivery. In 31.2 innings pitched over a team-tying-high 24 appearances, all in relief, he was 2-0 with two saves and a 2.84 ERA. He also allowed 35 hits (32 singles, three doubles), 10 earned runs, and 10 walks with 22 strikeouts.
Schnell played a big part in both of Clemson’s wins at #8 N.C. State on March 8,9. He gave up just one hit with three strikeouts in 2.1 innings pitched in Clemson’s 10-5 win on March 8. The following day, he earned his first career win by tossing 2.2 scoreless innings with one strikeout in the Tigers’ 7-4 victory.Slaton Took Control in Left FieldSophomore outfielder Tyler Slaton (Cumming, GA) struggled early in the 2013 season. But he was one of the team’s best hitters during the second half of the season and played a big role in Clemson’s second-half surge. On the season, he hit .263 with four doubles, one triple, 13 RBIs, 18 runs, and six steals.
In his home state of Georgia against the Bulldogs on March 26, he went 4-for-5 with two runs to lead the Tigers to a 9-1 victory. Then in the series at Boston College from April 5-7, he went 8-for-12 (.667) with a walk to lead Clemson to a three-game sweep.Triller ThrilledFreshman outfielder Mike Triller (Rutland, VT) had few opportunities to make his mark in 2013. But when given the chance, he did his part to contribute to Clemson’s success. In 23 games (six starts), he was 9-for-27 (.333) with three doubles, seven RBIs, three runs, and two steals.
Triller made his first career start near his home state at Boston College on April 7 and went 1-for-3. He also ended the game with a running catch down the left-field line in Clemson’s 1-0 victory that sealed the Tigers’ sweep of the series.
In the ACC Tournament at Durham, NC from May 22-25, he went 2-for-5 with two RBIs and a steal in three games (two starts). The two RBIs came on a two-run single against #3 North Carolina on May 24.Wilkerson No Stranger to StreaksJunior second-baseman Steve Wilkerson (Roswell, GA) was one of Clemson’s best hitters in 2012 and 2013. The switch-hitter batted .291 with a team-high 16 doubles, two triples, four homers, 37 RBIs, 36 runs, and 10 stolen bases. Wilkerson was named Second-Team All-ACC in 2013, the second year in a row he received that accolade.
He had a hit in Clemson’s last game of the 2012 season and the first nine games of 2013. It was his third career double-digit hitting streak, as he had hitting streaks of 19 and 15 games in 2012.Four Tigers Named Co-CaptainsFour Tigers were selected as team captains, as voted on by the players, prior to the 2013 season. Senior outfielder Thomas Brittle, senior bullpen catcher Marcus Curry, senior righthander Scott Firth, and junior first-baseman Jon McGibbon were all named captains.
Since Curry, who was in his fourth season in the program, was designated as a bullpen catcher in 2011, he could never play in a game as a Tiger. The fact that he was voted as a team captain showed the tremendous amount of respect he garnered among his teammates.Future ACC Tournament SitesThe 2014 ACC Tournament will return to NewBridge Bank Park in Greensboro, NC, where it was held in 2010 and 2012. Locations for the tournament after the 2014 season have yet to be determined.Three Former Tigers on Major League RostersThree former Clemson baseball players have been on Major League rosters in 2013. The list includes infielder/outfielder Jeff Baker, outfielder Tyler Colvin, and lefthander Tony Sipp.
Baker is in his ninth season in the Majors and played his fourth season with the Chicago Cubs in 2012 before being traded to the Detroit Tigers in August. He was later traded to the Atlanta Braves in 2012. He was then acquired by the Texas Rangers prior to the 2013 season. Baker, who is tied for the Tiger record with 59 career home runs, played for the Colorado Rockies in the 2007 World Series. He entered the 2013 season with 361 hits and 37 home runs in his Major League career.
Colvin, in his fifth Major League season and second with the Colorado Rockies, saw limited action with the Chicago Cubs in the latter stages of the 2009 season before bursting onto the scene in a big way in 2010. He was one of the best rookies in the National League in 2010 when he totaled 18 doubles, five triples, 20 home runs, and 56 RBIs in 135 games. In 2012, Colvin batted .290 with 27 doubles, 10 triples, 18 homers, 72 RBIs, and 62 runs in 136 games.
Sipp, who batted .280 and had a 2-2 pitching record for the Tigers in 2004, was called up to Cleveland in 2009 and played four seasons with the Indians. He was acquired by the Arizona Diamondbacks prior to the 2013 season and is in his fifth year in the Major Leagues. Entering the 2013 season, Sipp had a 3.67 ERA and 225 strikeouts in 220.2 innings pitched over 249 relief appearances in his Major League career.Tigers Took Two From the Tribe to Open the SeasonClemson won two of three games over William & Mary by a combined score of 16-13 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium from February 15-17. The Tigers outhit William & Mary .305 to .257 and totaled eight doubles. Steven Duggar went 5-for-9 (.556) with two doubles and two walks, while Steve Wilkerson added five hits and four RBIs. The Clemson pitching staff had a 4.00 ERA and 21 strikeouts against nine walks.
In game-one on February 15, Shane Kennedy belted a two-out, two-run homer in the eighth inning to lift Clemson to a 2-0 win over William & Mary. Both starting pitchers flustered the opposition during the first seven innings before Wilkerson’s two-out bunt single in the eighth inning set up Kennedy’s first hit as a Tiger. Starter Daniel Gossett pitched 6.2 scoreless innings with six strikeouts. Clay Bates pitched 1.1 innings in relief to earn his first win as a Tiger, while Matt Campbell retired both batters he faced with runners on second and third to record the save. The game lasted just 1:56, Clemson’s shortest game since 2006.
In game-two on February 16, William & Mary pounded out 16 hits en route to an 11-2 win over Clemson. The win was William & Mary’s first in the fifth all-time meeting between the two. The Tribe scored in five different innings despite not putting the leadoff batter on base in any of those frames. Ryan Lindemuth went 4-for-5, while Michael Katz went 3-for-4 with four RBIs to lead the Tribe. Starter John Farrell tossed 7.0 effective innings to earn the win. Clemson totaled 10 hits, as Kennedy and Jay Baum had two hits apiece.
In game-three on February 17, Clemson scored all 12 of its runs in its last three innings at the plate to defeat William & Mary 12-2. The Tigers put just one batter on base in the first five innings, then they erupted for 12 runs on 14 hits in the sixth, seventh, and eighth innings despite not putting their leadoff batter on base in any of those three innings. Clemson, who had 15 hits in the game, pulled away with its six-run seventh inning, highlighted by Wilkerson’s three-run double. Wilkerson led the Tigers with two hits and a game-high four RBIs. Starter Scott Firth allowed just two hits and one run in 7.0 innings pitched to earn the victory.Tigers Allowed Only Three Runs in Sweep of RaidersClemson swept Wright State by a combined score of 18-3 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on February 23,24. The Tigers outhit the Raiders .278 to .247 and totaled seven doubles, one homer, 16 walks against only 12 strikeouts, and seven steals. Steve Wilkerson went 6-for-11 (.545) with a homer, double, three RBIs, three runs, and three steals. The Tiger pitching staff had a 1.00 ERA and allowed only three of Wright State’s 39 baserunners to score in the series. Clemson committed just one error and fielded at a .992 clip as well.
In game-one on February 23, which was the first game of a doubleheader, Wilkerson went 2-for-4 with a solo homer and two RBIs to lead Clemson to a 5-3 win over Wright State. The Tigers scored two runs in the eighth inning to take a 5-1 lead, then Wright State scored two runs in the ninth inning and put the potential tying run on first base before Matt Campbell recorded the save. Starter Daniel Gossett allowed one run with six strikeouts in 5.0 innings pitched to earn the victory. Wright State outhit the Tigers 10-7, but Clemson had seven walks.
In game-two on February 23, which was the second game of a doubleheader, five Tiger pitchers combined to blank Wright State in Clemson’s 6-0 win. Clate Schmidt pitched 4.0 innings in his first career start to earn the victory. Wilkerson went 3-for-4 with a double to lead Clemson’s 11-hit attack, while Jon McGibbon went 2-for-3 with two RBIs. Wright State totaled nine hits, five walks, and five hit-by-pitches, but Clemson did not allow any of the Raiders’ 19 baserunners to score. Wright State also put six leadoff batters on base, but Clemson turned four double plays in the game.
In game-three on February 24, Scott Firth pitched 8.0 scoreless innings and Clemson scored five two-out runs in the seventh inning in its 7-0 victory over Wright State. Firth allowed just five hits (all singles), no runs, and two walks with four strikeouts to earn the win. He was aided by Steven Duggar, who threw out two runners at the plate to save runs on outfield assists. Shane Kennedy and Jay Baum both had two-out hits that scored multiple runs in the seventh inning. The Tigers amassed seven hits in the contest despite totaling no hits in the first five innings.Winthrop Edged Clemson 3-2 in 11 InningsLeighton Daniels scored on Clay Altman’s sacrifice fly in the 11th inning to lift Winthrop to a 3-2 win over Clemson at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on February 27. Steven Duggar‘s throw to the plate was well ahead of Daniels’ slide at home, but catcher Kevin Bradley could not handle the in-between hop. Six Clemson pitchers combined to allow only four hits, one earned run, and three walks against 15 strikeouts. Freshman Matthew Crownover gave up just one hit, one run, and one walk with four strikeouts in his first career start, while Kyle Schnell pitched 3.1 perfect innings with three strikeouts in relief.Gamecocks Topped Tigers Twice in Rivalry SeriesClemson won one of three games against #7 South Carolina at three different sites from March 1-3. The Gamecocks outscored the Tigers 17-6 and outhit Clemson .235 to .179. Garrett Boulware led the Tigers at the plate by going 3-for-9 (.333) with two doubles. The Tiger pitching staff had a 2.42 ERA, as 10 of its 17 runs allowed were unearned thanks to four costly errors.
In game-one at Clemson, SC on March 1, Jordan Montgomery tossed 8.0 innings of three-hit ball to lead South Carolina to a 6-0 victory over Clemson. Montgomery gave up just three hits, no runs, and two walks with nine strikeouts to earn the win, while Tyler Webb struck out all three batters he faced in the ninth inning to close out the game. South Carolina scored three runs in the seventh inning and two runs in the eighth inning, as all five of those runs were unearned thanks in large part to costly Tiger errors. Clemson starter Daniel Gossett yielded just three hits and one earned run in 6.1 innings pitched.
In game-two at Fluor Field in Greenville, SC on March 2, Clate Schmidt pitched 7.0 strong innings to lead Clemson to a 6-3 win over South Carolina. In just his second career start, Schmidt allowed only five hits and two runs with five strikeouts to earn the win. He received the Bob Bradley Award as Clemson’s MVP of the series for his efforts. Matt Campbell pitched the final 2.0 innings to record the save. Clemson scored three runs in the fifth inning, highlighted by Steven Duggar‘s two-out, two-run single, to take a 5-0 lead. The Tigers outhit the Gamecocks 11-7.
In game-three at Columbia, SC on March 3, Nolan Belcher pitched a three-hit shutout in South Carolina’s 8-0 win over Clemson. Belcher gave up just three singles, no runs, and no walks with seven strikeouts in throwing 118 pitches to earn the victory. Ahead by a score of 1-0, South Carolina scored five unearned runs on four two-out hits in the sixth inning to pull away. The uprising was highlighted by Connor Bright’s two-run double. Scott Firth, the first of five Tiger pitchers, allowed only one earned run in 6.0 innings pitched.Tigers Downed Wofford 9-2 in Midweek GameThe top-five starters in the lineup combined to go 10-for-13 (.769) with seven RBIs, nine runs, and five steals to lead Clemson to a 9-2 win over Wofford at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on March 6. Jay Baum and Shane Kennedy both went 3-for-3, Steven Duggar totaled a game-high four RBIs, and Steve Wilkerson amassed a game-high three runs. The Tigers totaled 11 hits and seven walks in the game. Starter Matthew Crownover won his first game as a Tiger by allowing just three hits, one run, and no walks with three strikeouts in 5.0 innings pitched.Tigers Claimed Series at #8 N.C. StateClemson won two of three games at #8 N.C. State by a combined score of 18-13 at Doak Field from March 8-10. The Wolfpack outhit the Tigers .294 to .257, but Clemson had a .366 on-base percentage to N.C. State’s .358 on-base percentage. Garrett Boulware led the Tigers by going 5-for-11 (.455) with two homers, one double, five RBIs, four runs, and three walks. The Tiger pitching staff had a 3.12 ERA and 23 strikeouts against 10 walks in 26.0 innings pitched.
In game-one on March 8, Boulware went 4-for-5 with two homers, five RBIs, and three runs to lead Clemson to a 10-5 win over N.C. State. Trailing 4-0, the Tigers scored three runs in the fourth inning and five runs in the fifth inning off Carlos Rodon to take the lead for good. Boulware’s three-run homer, his first career long ball, in the fifth inning gave Clemson a 7-4 lead. Jon McGibbon added three hits in Clemson’s 11-hit attack. Starter Daniel Gossett totaled nine strikeouts in 6.1 innings pitched to earn the victory.
In game-two on March 9, Thomas Brittle hit a grand slam in the second inning to lift Clemson to a 7-4 win over N.C. State. Brittle’s long ball gave Clemson a 5-1 lead, then five Tiger pitchers worked out of several jams to allow only four of N.C. State’s 20 baserunners to score and strand 15 runners on base. Kyle Schnell pitched 2.2 scoreless innings in relief to earn his first victory as a Tiger, while Matt Campbell pitched a scoreless ninth inning to record the save. N.C. State outhit the Tigers 16-6, but it walked nine and hit two batters.
In game-three on March 10, four N.C. State pitchers allowed only one of the Tigers’ 14 baserunners to score in its 4-1 win over Clemson. The Tigers stranded 10 runners on base, including nine in scoring position, and had two runners gunned down at the plate after singles in the sixth and seventh inning. Both teams totaled 10 hits, while N.C. State added two insurance runs in the eighth inning on a two-out double by pinch-hitter Sam Morgan. Scott Firth allowed just one earned run in 6.2 innings pitched, but suffered the loss.Clemson Outpitched Charleston Southern 3-1Three first-year pitchers combined to allow only five hits and one unearned run in Clemson’s 3-1 win over Charleston Southern at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on March 13. The Tigers scored two runs in the first inning and added a run in the seventh inning. The Buccaneers scored a run in the eighth inning and threatened to tie the score in the eighth and ninth innings before Kyle Schnell shut the door with his first career save. Matthew Crownover allowed just three hits, no runs, and no walks with two strikeouts to earn the win. Zack Erwin did not give up an earned run in 1.2 innings pitched in relief as well.Cavaliers Topped Tigers Twice in Three Close GamesVirginia, ranked as high as #12 in the nation, won two of three games over Clemson by a combined score of 20-17 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium from March 15-17. The Tigers outhit the Cavaliers .307 to .305 and totaled five doubles, two triples, and two homers along with going 14-for-31 (.452) with runners in scoring position in the series. Tyler Slaton went 4-for-6 with a double and two RBIs, while Steve Wilkerson went 7-for-15 (.467) with two doubles and two RBIs. The Tiger pitching staff had a 6.21 ERA and 23 strikeouts against eight walks in 29.0 innings pitched.
In game-one on March 15, Mike Papi hit a solo home run in the 11th inning to lift Virginia to a 6-5 win over Clemson in 11 innings. Papi’s pinch-hit, run-scoring single with two outs in the ninth inning capped Virginia’s three-run frame to tie the score. The Tigers built a 5-1 lead thanks in large part to Shane Kennedy‘s two-run homer in the second inning. Starter Daniel Gossett pitched 7.0 strong innings, allowing five hits, two runs, and no walks with six strikeouts. The Cavalier bullpen gave up just two hits and no runs with six strikeouts in 4.2 innings pitched.
In game-two on March 16, Garrett Boulware hit a walkoff single with two outs in the ninth inning to score Thomas Brittle and give Clemson a 7-6 win over Virginia. The Tigers built a 6-3 lead before Virginia tied the score 6-6 with a run in the eighth inning. Wilkerson kept the ninth inning alive with an infield single before Boulware’s walkoff single to the gap in right-center. Boulware went 3-for-5 with a homer, triple, and four RBIs, while Brittle scored a game-high three runs. Freshman Zack Erwin earned his first career win by allowing just one hit and one run with three strikeouts in 5.0 innings pitched in relief.
In game-three on March 17, Virginia scored five combined runs in the first two innings and held on for an 8-5 win over Clemson. The first 11 Tiger batters of the game were retired, but Clemson totaled 14 hits in the final six innings. Wilkerson and Slaton had three hits apiece to lead the Tigers. Branden Cogswell, Jared King, and Nate Irving had three hits apiece in Virginia’s 15-hit attack, while King added a game-high three RBIs and a game-high three runs. Cavalier starter Nick Howard allowed two runs in 6.0 innings pitched to earn the win.Clemson Swept Morehead State in Midweek SeriesClemson won both games over Morehead State by a combined score of 15-7 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on March 19,20. The Tigers outhit the Eagles .339 to .279 and totaled three doubles, one homer, and three steals. Garrett Boulware led the Tigers by going 4-for-6 with one homer, five RBIs, and three runs, while Tyler Krieger went 3-for-5 with two doubles, two RBIs, and three runs. The Tiger pitching staff had a 3.00 ERA.
In game-one on March 19, Clemson scored six runs in the fourth inning to defeat Morehead State 10-5. Boulware capped the six-run uprising with a three-run homer with two outs in the fourth inning. The Eagles led 2-0 and 3-1 before the Tigers took the lead for good in the fourth. Boulware went 2-for-4 with four RBIs, while Thomas Brittle went 3-for-4 with two steals. Jay Baum added a game-high three runs as well. The Tigers outhit the Eagles 12-9. Mike Kent pitched 3.0 scoreless innings in relief with four strikeouts to earn the win.
In game-two on March 20, Brody Koerner, Jonathan Meyer, and Zack Erwin combined to allow only two of 16 baserunners to score in Clemson’s 5-2 win over Morehead State. Trailing 2-1, the Tigers plated a run in the fifth inning to tie the score, then Jon McGibbon‘s run-scoring single in the sixth inning gave Clemson the lead for good. McGibbon went 2-for-4 with three RBIs, while Boulware went 2-for-2 with one RBI, two runs, and two walks. Meyer tossed 4.0 scoreless innings with three strikeouts to earn the win, while Erwin pitched a hitless and scoreless ninth inning to record his first career save.Tigers Took Two From DukeClemson won two of three games over Duke despite being outscored 17-16 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on March 22,23. The Tigers outhit the Blue Devils .304 to .296 and totaled five doubles and six steals. The Tigers scored at least one run in 10 straight innings over the first two games of the series. Thomas Brittle went 5-for-9 (.556) with two RBIs, four runs, and two steals, while Shane Kennedy went 3-for-6. The Tiger pitching staff had a 5.67 ERA and 14 strikeouts against 10 walks in 27.0 innings pitched.
In game-one on March 22, Daniel Gossett tossed a five-hit shutout in Clemson’s 7-0 win over Duke. Gossett gave up just five hits, no runs, and no walks with three strikeouts in the first shutout by a Tiger since 2008. Clemson scored in each of its last five innings at the plate, highlighted by a three-run uprising in the sixth inning. Brittle went 4-for-4 with one RBI, two runs, and two steals to lead the Tigers, who amassed 14 hits in the contest. Steven Duggar, Garrett Boulware, and Jon McGibbon all added two hits apiece.
In game-two on March 23, which was the first game of a doubleheader, every Tiger starter had at least one hit in Clemson’s 8-4 win over Duke. The Tigers scored in each of the first five innings after Duke scored two runs in the first inning. Boulware went 2-for-4 with two RBIs to pace the Tigers’ 12-hit attack. Clemson also had four stolen bases and did not commit an error. Zack Erwin pitched 4.1 scoreless innings in relief of three-hit ball with three strikeouts to earn the win. All four of the Blue Devils’ runs came with two outs.
In game-three on March 23, which was the second game of a doubleheader, Duke scored eight runs in the fourth inning on its way to a 13-1 win over Clemson. Duke scored three runs with two outs in the second inning, then scored six of its eight runs in the fourth inning with two outs. Duke’s victory snapped Clemson’s eight-game winning streak in the series. Andy Perez went 3-for-4 with five RBIs to pace the Blue Devils’ 15-hit attack. Starter Robert Huber yielded just five hits and one run in 6.0 innings pitched to earn the win.Clemson & Georgia Split Midweek SeriesClemson and Georgia split a two-game, home-and-home, midweek series on March 26,27. Both teams won on the opponent’s home field. Clemson outscored the Bulldogs 12-6 and outhit them .282 to .217. Tyler Slaton went 5-for-8 (.625) with one double and two walks, while Jon McGibbon went 3-for-7 (.429) with one double and five RBIs. The Tiger pitching staff had a 3.00 ERA and 14 strikeouts against seven walks, while Clemson committed just one error.
In game-one at Foley Field in Athens, GA on March 26, starter Matthew Crownover pitched 5.0 strong innings to lead Clemson to a 9-1 win over Georgia. Crownover allowed just four hits and one run to earn the win, then Jonathan Meyer and Patrick Andrews both pitched 2.0 scoreless innings to close out the game. Slaton went 4-for-5 with two runs to lead Clemson’s 13-hit attack, while Steven Duggar went 3-for-5 with his first career homer. McGibbon added four RBIs, including three RBIs on a bases-clearing double in the third inning. The Tigers pulled away with four runs in the fifth inning.
In game-two at Doug Kingsmore Stadium in Clemson, SC on March 27, Georgia hit three home runs in its 5-3 win over Clemson. Kyle Farmer hit a two-run homer in the first inning and the Bulldogs never relinquished their lead. Hunter Cole and Jared Walsh added solo homers, while Walsh recorded the save. The Tigers rallied in the ninth inning with a run and put the potential tying run on first base, but they fell short. The Tigers put 14 batters on base to Georgia’s 12, but Clemson stranded eight runners on base and grounded into two double plays.Top-Ranked Tar Heels Took Two of Three From ClemsonThe #1 North Carolina Tar Heels won two of three games over Clemson by a combined score of 20-10 at Boshamer Stadium from March 30 to April 1. The Tar Heels outhit the Tigers .360 to .237, while Clemson totaled three doubles and 10 walks. Shane Kennedy led the Tigers by going 5-for-11 (.455) with a double, two runs, and three walks. The Clemson pitching staff had a 6.33 ERA, while the Tigers had a .975 fielding percentage in the series.
In game-one on March 30, North Carolina scored four runs in both the first and third innings and cruised to a 10-3 win over Clemson. The Tar Heels totaled 19 hits, led by four hits and two RBIs by Cody Stubbs. Matt Roberts added a three-run homer in the third inning that broke the game open. Tyler Slaton went 3-for-4 with two runs and a walk to lead Clemson, who totaled 11 hits but only scored three of its 14 baserunners. Kent Emanuel allowed just one run on nine hits in 8.0 innings pitched to earn the win.
In game-two, which started on March 31 and ended on April 1 due to inclement weather, righthanders Benton Moss and Trent Thornton combined to allow just six hits, two unearned runs, and one walk with 13 strikeouts in North Carolina’s 6-2 victory over Clemson. Landon Lassiter went 4-for-5 with a double and two RBIs to lead the Tar Heels’ 11-hit attack. Garrett Boulware and Kennedy both went 2-for-4 to lead the Tigers at the plate, who could not take advantage of North Carolina’s four errors in the contest.
In game-three on April 1, Boulware’s groundout scored Jay Baum in the 11th inning to lift Clemson to a 5-4 win over North Carolina. The Tigers trailed 3-1 before scoring three runs in the sixth to take the lead. The Tar Heels tied the score with a run in the seventh inning. Scott Firth, who stranded runners at second and third in the eighth, 10th, and 11th innings, earned the win by pitching 4.2 scoreless innings of three-hit ball in relief. Firth induced a game-ending groundout to second after North Carolina put two runners on base with no outs in the 11th inning.Meyer Pitched Clemson to 4-1 Win Over Gardner-WebbJonathan Meyer pitched 7.0 strong innings to lead Clemson to a 4-1 win over Gardner-Webb at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on April 3. Meyer gave up just five hits, one run, and no walks with six strikeouts to earn the victory in a starting role, while Matt Campbell pitched a hitless and scoreless ninth inning to earn the save. Garrett Boulware belted a two-run homer in the first inning to give Clemson the lead for good. Thomas Brittle went 3-for-4 with a double, run, and steal to lead Clemson, who totaled 10 hits and five stolen bases in the game.Tigers Swept Boston College on the RoadClemson swept Boston College by a combined score of 17-7 at Commander Shea Field from April 5-7. The Tigers, who upped their winning streak in the series to 10 games, outhit the Eagles .290 to .155 and totaled seven doubles, one triple, and three steals. Tyler Slaton led the Tigers by going 8-for-12 (.667) with one triple, three runs, and one walk. Joe Costigan went 4-for-8 (.500) with three doubles and a walk. The Tiger pitching staff had a 1.67 ERA and allowed just three extra-base hits while totaling 19 strikeouts. The Clemson bullpen combined to allow just two hits, no runs, and one walk with six strikeouts in 7.0 innings pitched. Clemson committed just two errors in chilly and windy weather conditions as well.
In game-one on April 5, Clemson scored six runs in the seventh inning to rally for a 7-5 win over Boston College. The Tigers scored six runs on three hits and a costly error in the top of the seventh, capped by Costigan’s three-run double. Matt Pare hit a three-run homer in the bottom of the seventh to pull the Eagles within two runs, then they loaded the bases before Kyle Schnell struck out Joe Cronin. Daniel Gossett gave up three hits and three earned runs in 6.2 innings pitched to earn the win, while Zack Erwin retired all five batters he faced to record the save.
In game-two on April 6, Clemson scored four runs in the first inning and cruised to a 9-2 win over Boston College. The Tigers scored single runs in the second, third, fifth, seventh, and eighth innings as well. Shane Kennedy went 2-for-4 with two RBIs to lead Clemson’s 12-hit attack, while Slaton and Thomas Brittle added two hits and two runs apiece. Clate Schmidt allowed two runs on six hits in 7.0 innings pitched to earn the win. Patrick Andrews pitched 2.0 scoreless innings of one-hit ball to close out the game.
In game-three on April 7, Matthew Crownover and Matt Campbell combined to pitch a four-hit shutout in Clemson’s 1-0 win over Boston College. It was the Tigers’ first shutout in an ACC road game since 2007 and Clemson’s first 1-0 win in an ACC game since 1980. Crownover gave up four hits and one walk with four strikeouts in 6.1 innings pitched to earn the win, then Campbell retired all eight batters he faced with three strikeouts to record the save. Jon McGibbon‘s run-scoring single in the sixth inning scored Steven Duggar for the game’s only run.Clemson Held Off Catamounts 12-9 in CullowheeJon McGibbon‘s run-scoring single in the ninth inning coupled with two more ninth-inning runs propelled #17 Clemson to a 12-9 win at Western Carolina on April 9. The Tigers scored nine combined runs in the first four innings to take a 9-3 lead, but a costly Clemson error helped Western Carolina plate six runs in the seventh inning to tie the score. McGibbon went 3-for-4 with four RBIs and three runs to lead the Tigers, who outhit the Catamounts 14-12. Patrick Andrews pitched 1.1 perfect innings in relief to earn the win, then Scott Firth pitched a scoreless ninth inning to record the save.Krieger Lifted Tigers to 5-4 Walkoff Win Over Blue HoseTyler Krieger hit a two-out, walkoff single in the ninth inning to give #17 Clemson a 5-4 win over Presbyterian College at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on April 10. The Blue Hose rallied from a 3-1 deficit to take a 4-3 lead in the seventh inning, but Krieger led off the eighth inning with a triple on a 1-2 pitch and scored on a wild pitch to even the score. Krieger then came through with a single down the right-field line on an 0-2 pitch in the ninth inning to cap a four-hit night for the freshman. Matt Campbell pitched a perfect ninth inning with two strikeouts to earn the win.Tigers Swept Demon Deacons at HomeClemson, ranked as high as #17 in the nation, swept Wake Forest by a combined score of 15-6 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium from April 12-14. The Tigers outhit the Demon Deacons .291 to .233 and totaled two doubles, four triples, two homers, 21 walks against only 13 strikeouts, and eight steals. Shane Kennedy went 5-for-11 with three walks and two steals. The Tiger pitching staff had a 1.24 ERA and 26 strikeouts against 11 walks while allowing only four extra-base hits, all doubles. In 11.1 innings pitched, the Clemson bullpen allowed just four hits, no runs, and three walks with 11 strikeouts.
In game-one on April 12, every Tiger starter had at least one hit in Clemson’s 8-2 win over Wake Forest. Clemson built a 4-0 lead and pulled away with three runs in the sixth inning. Clemson outhit Wake Forest 13-8 and totaled 10 walks against only two strikeouts. Garrett Boulware hit a solo homer in the first inning, while Steven Duggar, Joe Costigan, and Steve Wilkerson hit one triple apiece. Eight different Tigers scored one run, while six different Tigers had one RBI. Daniel Gossett allowed just one earned run with nine strikeouts in 6.0 innings pitched to earn the win.
In game-two on April 13, Matthew Crownover and three relievers combined on a seven-hit shutout in Clemson’s 1-0 win over Wake Forest. Crownover gave up five hits and no runs with four strikeouts in 5.1 innings pitched, then Scott Firth pitched 2.0 perfect innings with two strikeouts to record the save. Clemson allowed only one Demon Deacon to advance past second base. The Tigers scored their lone run in the fifth inning on Tyler Krieger‘s two-out single to score Duggar, who reached as the leadoff batter on an error. Wake Forest outhit Clemson 7-5, but could not score any of its 11 baserunners in the game.
In game-three on April 14, Steven Duggar hit a two-run, walkoff homer in the 11th inning to lift Clemson to a 6-4 win over Wake Forest. The Demon Deacons battled back from deficits of 2-0 and 4-2 to tie the score each time, but with two outs in the 11th inning, Duggar hit a 2-1 breaking pitch over the fence in right field for a two-run homer to end the game. Duggar went 3-for-5 with four RBIs to lead the Tigers’ 12-hit attack. Firth gave up just one hit and no runs with four strikeouts in 3.0 innings pitched in relief to earn the win.Hurricanes Rebounded to Claim Series in Coral GablesMiami (FL) won two of three games over #12 Clemson by a combined score of 9-2 at Alex Rodriguez Park from April 19-21. Miami outhit the Tigers .272 to .160. Steve Wilkerson led Clemson at the plate by going 4-for-10. Miami limited Clemson to just 2-for-35 (.057) with runners on base and 0-for-10 with runners in scoring position in the series. The Tiger pitching staff had a 2.16 ERA and allowed just three extra-base hits, all doubles.
In game-one on April 19, Daniel Gossett, Matt Campbell, and Scott Firth combined for a four-hit shutout in Clemson’s 1-0 victory over Miami. Gossett allowed just three hits with 10 strikeouts in 7.0 innings pitched, while Firth pitched a perfect ninth inning to record the save. The three Tiger righthanders combined to allow only two baserunners past first base and one baserunner past second base. Jon McGibbon led off the sixth inning with a walk, advanced to third on Tyler Slaton‘s single up the middle, and scored on Thomas Brittle‘s groundout for the game’s only run.
In game-two on April 20, Bryan Radziewski struck out 10 batters in 7.0 innings pitched to lead Miami to a 2-1 win over Clemson. The Tigers took the lead with a run in the second inning, but Miami scored single runs in the third and fifth innings. Clemson hit two, two-out singles in the ninth inning, but fell short. Three Tiger pitchers combined to allow two unearned runs, but the three Miami hurlers combined to allow just one run on four hits with 13 strikeouts. Garrett Boulware had two of the Tigers’ four hits in the game, but it was not enough, as Clemson’s 11-game winning streak came to an end.
In game-three on April 21, Andrew Suarez pitched a six-hit shutout in Miami’s 7-0 victory over Clemson. The lefthander allowed six singles, no runs, and no walks with five strikeouts in throwing only 109 pitches. The Hurricanes scored one run in the first inning and two runs in the second inning. Miami put the game away with three runs on five hits in the eighth inning. Alexander Hernandez went 3-for-5 with two RBIs to lead Miami, who outhit the Tigers 13-6 and did not strike out for the second game in a row. Wilkerson went 3-for-4 to lead the Tigers.Tigers Pounded Western Carolina 12-1 Behind 17 HitsThe #13 Clemson Tigers totaled a season-high 17 hits in their 12-1 win over Western Carolina at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on April 24. The Tigers scored four runs in the third inning, four runs in the fourth inning, and three runs in the sixth inning to break the game open. Garrett Boulware went 3-for-4 with four RBIs and two runs, while Tyler Slaton, Mike Triller, Steven Duggar, Shane Kennedy, and Jon McGibbon all added two hits apiece. Zack Erwin pitched 5.0 strong innings with four strikeouts to earn the win in his first career start.Clemson Took Two From Yellow Jackets in TigertownClemson, ranked as high as #13 in the nation, won two of three games over #19 Georgia Tech by a combined score of 24-20 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on April 26,27. Georgia Tech outhit the Tigers .303 to .284, while Clemson had 30 walks against only 14 strikeouts, a .436 on-base percentage, and nine steals in the series. Tyler Krieger went 7-for-12 (.583) with a double, four RBIs, and four walks, while Jon McGibbon went 4-for-10 with five RBIs and four walks. Maleeke Gibson went 4-for-8 with four RBIs and five runs as well. The Tiger pitching staff had a 3.41 ERA and 27 strikeouts against 11 walks.
In game-one on April 26, which was the first game of a doubleheader, Clemson totaled 13 hits in its 11-3 win over Georgia Tech. The Tigers scored all 11 runs in their final four innings at the plate. Clemson totaled eight walks against only four strikeouts. Krieger went 3-for-3 with two RBIs and two walks, while McGibbon went 2-for-3 with three RBIs and two walks. Steven Duggar added two hits, two runs, two walks, and a steal. Daniel Gossett allowed just one run on five hits in 7.0 innings pitched to earn the win.
In game-two on April 26, which was the second game of a doubleheader, Krieger hit a two-out single down the left-field line to score Garrett Boulware in the 11th inning for a 4-3 walkoff win. The Tigers trailed 3-1 before Clemson plated two runs in the ninth inning to tie the score. The Tigers totaled just five hits, but they walked 15 times against only four walks and took advantage of five Georgia Tech errors. Tyler Slaton had a game-high four walks, while Boulware and Krieger had two hits apiece. Scott Firth pitched 2.0 scoreless innings in relief to earn the victory.
In game-three on April 27, Georgia Tech scored 10 runs in the fifth inning on its way to a 14-9 win over Clemson. The Tigers scored four runs in the first inning to take a 4-2 lead, but the Yellow Jackets took advantage of two costly Clemson errors to score 10 runs, eight of which were unearned, in the fifth inning. Clemson pulled within 12-9 and had the bases loaded with no outs in the seventh inning, but could not pull any closer. Zane Evans went 6-for-6 with two homers, one double, four RBIs, and four runs to lead Georgia Tech’s 18-hit attack. Gibson went 3-for-5 with four RBIs to pace the Tigers, who had 13 hits.Clemson Rebounded to Claim Series Over MarylandClemson, ranked as high #14 in the nation in game-one and #15 in the final two games, won two of three games over Maryland at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on May 4,6. Both teams scored 14 runs, while the Terrapins outhit the Tigers .288 to .236. Jon McGibbon led the Tigers by going 3-for-7 (.429) with three RBIs, while Shane Kennedy and Steve Wilkerson both totaled four hits. The Tiger pitching staff had a 2.67 ERA and 17 strikeouts against eight walks.
In game-one on May 4, Jimmy Reed struck out 11 and allowed just two runs on four hits in 8.0 innings pitched to lead Maryland to a 7-2 win over Clemson. Maryland scored three runs in the second inning and never looked back. Kennedy hit a two-run homer in the sixth inning to cut the Terrapins’ lead to 5-2, but Maryland scored two runs in the sixth inning to put the game away. Kyle Convissar went 3-for-4 with a homer to lead the Terrapins, who totaled 14 hits in the contest. Jay Baum had a team-high two hits to lead Clemson, who had four hits.
In game-two on May 6, which was the first game of a doubleheader, Scott Firth struck out two batters with the bases loaded in the ninth inning to preserve Clemson’s 3-2 win over Maryland. The Tigers scored two runs in the sixth inning to take a 3-1 lead, then Maryland scored a run in the eighth inning to cut Clemson’s lead in half. But Firth worked out of a jam in the ninth inning to record the save, while Zack Erwin earned the victory in his first career ACC start by allowing only one run on five hits in 6.0 innings pitched. Wilkerson and McGibbon both had two hits to lead the Tigers, who were outhit 10-5.
In game-three on May 6, which was the second game of a doubleheader, Clemson scored four runs in the first inning on its way to a 9-5 win over Maryland. The Tigers scored a run in the sixth inning to build an 8-0 lead before Maryland took advantage of two Tiger errors to score five runs in the seventh inning. But Matt Campbell pitched 2.0 scoreless innings to record the save. Starter Matthew Crownover pitched 6.0 scoreless innings of four-hit ball to earn the victory. Five different Tigers had two hits apiece to lead Clemson’s 12-hit attack.Tigers Pounded Paladins in Doubleheader SweepClemson, ranked as high as #15 in the nation, swept Furman in a doubleheader by a combined score of 26-4 at Fluor Field in Greenville, SC on May 8. The Tigers outhit the Paladins .389 to .197 and totaled 28 hits, 18 walks, three hit-by-pitches, a .516 on-base percentage, and 12 steals. Jon McGibbon went 5-for-6 with a double, four RBIs, five runs, two walks, and one steal. Steve Wilkerson went 5-for-8 with a double, triple, five RBIs, two runs, and four walks. Shane Kennedy went 4-for-7 with a homer, two RBIs, four runs, one walk, and four steals. Thomas Brittle, Maleeke Gibson, and Steven Duggar also added four hits apiece. The Tiger pitching staff had an 0.50 ERA and allowed just one earned run and 13 hits with 15 strikeouts.
In game-one on May 8, which was the first game of a doubleheader, Clemson scored six runs in the seventh inning on its way to a 14-2 win over Furman. The Tigers outhit the Paladins 14-2, scored a season-high 14 runs, and were led by Wilkerson, who went 3-for-4 with a double, triple, four RBIs, and two walks. Kennedy and Brittle added three hits apiece, while Gibson and Duggar totaled three RBIs apiece. In his first career start away from home, Brody Koerner allowed just one hit and no runs with seven strikeouts in 6.0 innings pitched to earn the victory.
In game-two on May 8, which was the second game of a doubleheader, Clemson broke open a close game with four runs in the sixth inning in its 12-2 win over Furman. McGibbon went 4-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs in Clemson’s 14-hit attack. Kennedy added a solo homer, three runs, and three of the Tigers’ seven steals in the game. Kyle Schnell pitched 2.1 perfect innings in relief with two strikeouts to earn the win. Schnell and Jackson Campana combined to hold Furman hitless and scoreless over the last four innings.Clemson Swept Georgia Southern at HomeClemson, ranked as high as #15 in the nation, swept Georgia Southern by a combined score of 25-7 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium from May 10-12. The Tigers outhit the Eagles .357 to .204 and totaled four doubles, one triple, 17 walks against only 16 strikeouts, and seven stolen bases. Garrett Boulware went 6-for-10 with four RBIs and five runs, while Shane Kennedy went 5-for-10 with a triple, three RBIs, three runs, and two walks. The Tiger pitching staff had a 2.00 ERA and 24 strikeouts, while the Clemson defense committed just one error in the series.
In game-one on May 10, Daniel Gossett struck out 12 batters to lead Clemson to a 7-1 win over Georgia Southern. In 7.1 innings pitched, Gossett allowed just two hits, one run, and two walks with 12 strikeouts to earn the victory. Three Tiger relievers combined to pitch 1.2 scoreless innings to close out the game. Clemson scored three runs in the fourth inning to take a 4-0 lead and cruised the rest of the way. Boulware and Mike Triller both went 2-for-3 with two RBIs, while Kennedy went 2-for-2 with two of Clemson’s nine walks in the game.
In game-two on May 11, Matthew Crownover, Patrick Andrews, and Jackson Campana combined on a four-hit shutout in Clemson’s 7-0 win over Georgia Southern. Crownover allowed just three hits, no runs, and three walks with eight strikeouts in 7.0 innings pitched to earn the win, then Andrews and Campana each pitched a scoreless inning to close out the game. No Eagle baserunner advanced past second base in the game. Steven Duggar went 3-for-4 to lead Clemson’s 12-hit attack, while Boulware, Kennedy, and Tyler Krieger added two hits apiece.
In game-three on May 12, Clemson pounded out 14 hits in its 11-6 win over Georgia Southern. The Tigers scored five runs in the second inning to take a 5-1 lead and never looked back. Five different Tigers had two hits apiece, as Maleeke Gibson went 2-for-4 with a double, two RBIs, and two runs. Krieger went 2-for-4 with two RBIs as well. Tiger batters combined to walk five times against only two walks. Starter Zack Erwin tossed 5.0 innings to earn the win, then four Tiger relievers each pitched an inning to close out the game.Tigers Rallied to Edge USC Upstate 8-7 on Walkoff HomerKevin Bradley hit a three-run, walkoff homer with one out in the ninth inning to lift #14 Clemson to an 8-7 win over USC Upstate at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on May 14. The Spartans scored six runs in the third inning to take a 6-4 lead. Trailing 7-5 and with runners on the corners in the ninth inning, Bradley belted an opposite-field home run, the first long ball of his career, to left field. Bradley went 2-for-3 with two runs, one walk, and one hit-by-pitch, as he only started at first base at the last minute due to Jon McGibbon‘s illness. Scott Firth recorded the victory.Seminoles Won Last Two To Take Series Over TigersFlorida State, ranked as high as #8 in the nation, won two of three games over #14 Clemson at Dick Howser Stadium from May 16-18. Both teams scored 10 runs, while Clemson outhit the Seminoles .295 to .261 in the series. Clemson also totaled six doubles, two homers, 10 walks, and eight steals. Jon McGibbon led the Tigers by going 6-for-10, while Thomas Brittle went 4-for-9 with two walks and a hit-by-pitch. The Tiger pitching staff had a 3.60 ERA and 15 strikeouts. Clemson committed only one error in the series as well.
In game-one on May 16, Daniel Gossett tossed 6.0 scoreless innings of three-hit ball to lead Clemson to an 8-2 win over Florida State. Gossett allowed just three singles and three walks with three strikeouts to earn the victory. Matt Campbell pitched 2.0 hitless and scoreless innings with three strikeouts to close out the game. Clemson scored six combined runs in the first four innings and added two runs in the sixth inning. Steve Wilkerson hit a solo homer in the first inning, while Brittle hit an inside-the-park, two-run homer in the third inning.
In game-two on May 17, Florida State scored two runs in the first inning and held on for a 2-1 victory over Clemson. The Tigers put their leadoff batter on base in five straight frames from innings 3-7, but only scored a single run in the sixth inning on Shane Kennedy‘s run-scoring groundout. Wilkerson went 3-for-4 with a run and steal to lead the Tigers, who outhit the Seminoles 7-5. Starter Luke Weaver struck out eight in 7.1 innings pitched to earn the win. Clate Schmidt pitched 3.2 hitless and scoreless innings in relief for the Tigers as well.
In game-three on May 18, Brandon Leibrandt and Billy Strode combined to allow only one run on 13 hits in Florida State’s 6-1 win over Clemson. The Tigers scored one run in the first inning, but they could not score again. Clemson had 16 batters reach base, but left 13 runners on base, including 10 in scoring position. McGibbon had a game-high three hits, while Steven Duggar added two hits and Clemson’s only RBI of the game. Both teams had 13 hits in the contest. Florida State clinched the ACC Atlantic Division title with the victory.Tigers Went 0-3 in the ACC TournamentClemson, ranked as high as #14 in the nation, went 0-3 in the ACC Tournament at Durham (NC) Bulls Athletic Park from May 22-25. The Tigers were outscored 25-10 and batted .207 with eight stolen bases. Maleeke Gibson went 5-for-15 with two runs to lead the Tigers. The Tiger pitching staff had a 6.39 ERA.
In the Tigers’ first game on May 22, #9 N.C. State broke a 2-2 tie with four runs in the seventh inning and held on for a 6-3 win over Clemson. With N.C. State leading 2-1, Clemson loaded the bases with no outs in the sixth inning. But Clemson only scored one run in the frame. Jake Fincher hit a run-scoring single in the seventh inning to give N.C. State the lead for good, then Brett Austin added a two-run double. Garrett Boulware hit a long solo homer in the ninth inning, but it was not enough for Clemson, who outhit the Wolfpack 8-6. Boulware went 3-for-4 with a homer and double.
In the Tigers’ second game on May 24, #3 North Carolina scored five runs in the 14th inning to defeat Clemson 12-7. The Tigers led 7-2 entering the ninth inning, but a leadoff walk and three singles set up Brian Holberton’s two-out, three-run homer to tie the score. Clemson left eight combined runners on base in the ninth, 11th, 12th, and 13th innings without scoring. Then the Tar Heels scored five runs with one out in the 14th inning. Shane Kennedy went 3-for-5 with two runs and two steals for the Tigers. Cody Stubbs had a game-high four hits to lead the Tar Heels, who outhit Clemson 19-11.
In the Tigers’ third game on May 25, Bryan Radziewski and Eric Nedeljkovic combined for a four-hit shutout to lead Miami (FL) to a 7-0 victory over Clemson. Radziewski allowed four hits, no runs, and two walks with five strikeouts in 8.0 innings pitched to earn the win. The Hurricanes scored two runs in the first inning and never looked back. Chantz Mack had a game-high three runs to lead Miami, who outhit the Tigers 11-4. Steven Duggar went 2-for-3 with a double to lead the Tigers.Tigers Fell Short in Columbia RegionalClemson, ranked as high as #17 in the nation, went 1-2 and finished in third place in the Columbia (SC) Regional while outscoring its opponents 14-13 at Carolina Stadium from May 31 to June 2. Clemson defeated Saint Louis for its lone win, while the Tigers lost both games against Liberty. The Tigers were outhit .298 to .229 and totaled there doubles and three homers. Shane Kennedy (3B) was named to the Columbia Regional All-Tournament team by going 4-for-13 (.308) with one homer, two RBIs, and two runs in three games. Steven Duggar went 6-for-13 (.462) with two doubles and two RBIs. The Tiger pitching staff had a 4.15 ERA.
In the Tigers’ first game on May 31, Josh Richardson pitched a complete-game six-hitter to lead Liberty to an 8-3 win over Clemson. Richardson allowed just six hits, two earned runs, and no walks to earn the victory. Liberty scored two runs in the third inning to take a 3-1 advantage and never relinquished the lead. Trey Wimmer’s three-run homer in the sixth inning put the game out of reach. Wimmer went 2-for-4 with six RBIs to lead the Flames’ 13-hit attack. Duggar went 3-for-4 with a double and two RBIs to lead the Tigers.
In the Tigers’ second game on June 1, Steve Wilkerson hit two homers with five RBIs to lead Clemson to a 10-2 win over Saint Louis in the first-ever meeting between the two schools. Wilkerson’s two-run homer in the third inning gave Clemson the lead for good, then he added a three-run home run in the fourth inning. Kennedy also hit a solo homer in the third inning. Daniel Gossett pitched 6.0 effective innings to earn the win, while Kyle Schnell tossed 3.0 scoreless innings to record the save. Clemson was aided by three double plays and no errors on defense.
In the Tigers’ third game on June 3, Trey Lambert and Ashton Perritt combined to allow just one of 13 baserunners to score in Liberty’s 3-1 win over Clemson. The Tigers scored the game’s first run in the top of the fourth inning, but with runners on second and third with no outs, they could not add to their lead. The Flames responded with two runs in the bottom of the fourth inning and held on for the two-run win. Both teams had eight hits, but the Tigers were 1-for-14 with runners in scoring position. Garrett Boulware went 3-for-4 with an RBI to lead Clemson.
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