Caden Grice, the standout player from Clemson, has emerged as a distinguished finalist for the illustrious Olerud Award, a prestigious accolade named after the renowned former baseball player John Olerud of Washington State University.
Every year, this highly respected award is given to recognize an outstanding two-way player in college baseball. It’s a prestigious honor that celebrates the exceptional talent and skills of athletes who excel both as pitchers and hitters. And this year, Caden Grice has truly shined on the field, proving himself as a player in both aspects of the game. His performances as a pitcher have really helped him free himself up at the plate as well. Shining as both a pitcher and hitter has earned him the well-deserved recognition that comes with being a finalist for this esteemed award.
Hailing from Greer, South Carolina, Grice has been an extraordinary dual threat for the Tigers throughout the 2023 season. When he takes the mound, his dominance is palpable, evident in his impressive 8-1 record coupled with a commendable 3.25 ERA. The opposing batters have found it arduous to find success against him, managing a mere .195 batting average. With an astonishing 91 strikeouts recorded in 69.1 innings pitched, Grice showcases his prowess as a pitcher while maintaining excellent control, as he has only issued 32 walks. These remarkable numbers have been achieved over the course of 13 starts, cementing his position as one of the team’s reliable starting pitchers.
Not content with excelling solely as a pitcher, Grice has also left an indelible mark with his bat. Displaying consistency at the plate, he boasts a solid batting average of .302. His power-hitting skills are unmistakable, evident in his 16 home runs, a triple, and 13 doubles. Grice’s offensive contributions extend beyond his raw power, as demonstrated by his impressive 63 RBIs and 56 runs scored. His disciplined approach results in a commendable .409 on-base percentage, which showcases his well-rounded offensive skills. Additionally, he exhibits his speed on the basepaths with three successful stolen bases.
Grice’s statistics make it evident why he has been chosen as a finalist for this award. His skills in both pitching and hitting have set him apart as an extraordinary talent in the world of college baseball. Not only has Grice’s performance been crucial to Clemson’s success this season, but he also played a key role in their recent victory in the ACC Tournament, where he rightfully earned the title of Most Valuable Player. His impact on the team cannot be understated, and it’s no surprise that he’s being recognized for his exceptional abilities.
When we examine Grice’s overall career at Clemson, his numbers continue to astound. Over his three-year tenure, he has amassed an impressive 10-2 record, accompanied by a notable 3.69 ERA. Batters have found it exceptionally challenging to face him, hitting a meager .203. Grice’s ability to strike out batters while keeping his walks in check is truly remarkable. In 85.1 innings pitched, he has recorded an impressive 112 strikeouts compared to just 45 walks. It’s a testament to his skill and control on the mound. Notably, his 156 RBIs and 141 runs scored highlight his ability to make a substantial impact offensively as well.
The excitement reaches unprecedented heights for the Clemson community as the announcement draws nearer. Grice’s journey as a Tiger has been nothing short of extraordinary, and his recognition as a finalist for the Olerud Award stands as a testament to his exceptional abilities.
With Grice leading the charge, the Clemson Tigers are poised for a triumphant postseason run, fueled by their exceptional talent and unwavering potential. Grice’s inclusion as an Olerud Award finalist further solidifies the team’s aspirations for championship glory.
Caden Grice’s outstanding performance as a two-way player has rightfully earned him a place as a finalist for the prestigious Olerud Award. His remarkable skills as both a pitcher and hitter have set him apart as one of the best talents in college baseball. As the anticipation builds and the announcement of the final winner draws near, the Clemson community rallies behind Grice, fueling the excitement and enthusiasm surrounding his potential historic achievement.
