Clemson Baseball’s dominant offense propelled them to a commanding 14-5 victory over Virginia Tech Hokies in ACC Tournament at Durham Bulls Athletic Park. The Tigers, riding a 13-game winning streak, by scoring seven runs with two outs in the crucial sixth inning.
The Hokies struck first, taking an early lead with a run in the opening inning. However, Clemson quickly responded in the second inning when Benjamin Blackwell delivered a pivotal two-out single to level the score. Virginia Tech regained the advantage in the bottom of the second inning with another run, but Clemson showed resilience.
In the third inning, Will Taylor’s sacrifice fly brought in the tying run followed by Billy Amick’s two-out RBI double, extended his hitting streak to 10 games, propelling Clemson to a 3-2 lead. However, Virginia Tech countered in the fourth inning, with Carson DeMartini’s two-out, two-run single pushing them ahead. Pinch-hitter Sam Tackett added to the Hokies’ tally with a run-scoring single, giving them a 5-3 lead.
Clemson Baseball 7-run 6th inning
The game took a dramatic turn in the sixth inning as Clemson unleashed an extraordinary two-out rally. Jacob Jarrell’s pop up to left field was dropped, resulting in two runs. Cam Cannarella followed it up with a scorching single, bringing Jarrell home. Three batters later, the stage was set for Caden Grice to etch his name in history. With the bases loaded, Grice stepped up and smashed a grand slam, marking his 15th home run of the season. This incredible feat also set a new school record for the Tigers, as it was Grice’s third grand slam this year.
With the score now 10-5 in favor of Clemson, they continued to add to their lead. Riley Bertram’s single in the eighth inning contributed another run, while three runs in the ninth inning, including a run-scoring single from Amick, firmly sealed the game for the Tigers.
Pitcher B.J. Bailey delivered 1.2 scoreless innings in relief to earn the victory. Unfortunately for Hokie starter Drue Hackenberg, he endured a challenging outing, allowing seven runs (four earned) on seven hits over 5.2 innings, ultimately taking the loss.
Clemson’s next challenge awaits them on Friday at 11 a.m. when they face Boston College, the sixth seed in the tournament. The upcoming game, broadcasted on ACC Network, will determine the winner of Pool C. In this matchup, Clemson has been designated the home team, occupying the third-base dugout.
