Clemson baseball roared into the 2024 season with a 14-3 victory over the Xavier Musketeers. This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. For the first time since 2010, and only the third game in the program’s storied history, the Tigers unleashed two grand slams in a single game, electrifying fans and setting a fantastic start for the season ahead.
The game commenced with an unexpected jolt as the Musketeers capitalized on an early error by the Tigers, securing two unearned runs and a fleeting lead. But the home team wasted no time in making their mark. The first inning turned into a playground for Clemson’s hitters, as they effortlessly scored seven runs from eight hits. It was a sight to behold! Cam Cannarella, whose leadoff single stretched his hitting streak to an impressive 10 games—a streak that dates back to the past season.
The stage was then set for Alden Mathes to make a grand entrance in true Hollywood fashion: his first plate appearance with the Tigers culminated in a soaring grand slam. Cooper Blauser followed suit, not just with another hit, but with a home run that marked his first career hit and provided every Clemson starter with at least one hit in the contest.
But the Tigers’ hunger for runs was insatiable. The fourth inning saw Nolan Nawrocki delivering his seismic impact—a grand slam that extended Clemson’s lead to a towering 12-2 and assured each Tiger starter scored at least once. By the eighth inning, two additional runs were casually added to the scoreboard.
“The first inning couldn’t have gone any better,” said Coach Erik Bakich. “Seeing us face some adversity, get tested, and then see our response.”
Clemson’s offensive juggernaut was backed by sterling play on the mound. Billy Barlow struck out two while allowing only three hits and two unearned runs across five commendable innings. This performance cemented his win and showcased the dual nature of Clemson’s menace: an ironclad defense coupled with an unbridled offensive force.
“There were alot of Storylines in this game,” said Bakich. “The biggest was the way our pitching settled the game down the second through eighth inning…we had no walks during that time.”
“I talked to one of our coaches and he picked my brain a little and settled me down,” said Barlow. “Our offense put up alot of runs and then I went back out and did it.
The Tigers’ well-oiled machine featured incredible individual flair with collective efficiency. Mathes, Blauser, and Nawrocki not only secured home runs but also fortified a lineup that’s proving itself to be as deep as it is dynamic. In baseball, it’s not just about hitting the ball; it’s about making hits count, and Clemson demonstrated a masterclass in both categories on this historically grand opening day.
Talking about the batting lineup, “We have guys on our bench that are going to get drafted,” said Alden Mathes. “Batter 1-15 is stacked, we can run different lineups every night. Its definitely a luxury to have. “
All eyes now turn to Saturday’s matchup at 2 p.m. on ACC Network Extra. As the afternoon fades and the stadium gets ready for another thrilling game, excitement builds up about what the second day might bring. Will the Musketeers make a comeback, or will Clemson keep dominating, riding the momentum from their season opener?
