In a highly anticipated matchup, the No. 8/9 Clemson Tigers faced off against the NC State Wolfpack to kick off ACC play. The Tigers entered the game with a record of 12-4 overall and 1-1 in the ACC, while the Wolfpack boasted a strong 14-4 record, also with a 1-1 ACC standing. The Saturday afternoon doubleheader proved to be an exciting clash of titans, with Clemson ultimately splitting the action, dropping the opening game 6-1 before bouncing back to run-rule NC State in game two, clinching an 8-0 victory in just five innings.
Game 1: Clemson Falls Short, NC State Takes Opening Win
In the first game of the doubleheader, Clemson faced an early setback as NC State surged ahead, scoring six runs in the top of the second inning to establish a commanding lead of 6-1. Despite a promising start with Alex Brown’s triple and subsequent run in the bottom of the first inning, Clemson struggled to match NC State’s offensive prowess. The Wolfpack’s early offensive barrage proved insurmountable, as both teams remained scoreless for the remainder of the game. Ultimately, NC State secured the victory with a final score of 6-1.
Clemson showcased resilience at the plate, tallying seven hits in the opening game. However, the Tigers were unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities, leaving seven runners stranded on base. Alex Brown led the offensive charge, going 3-for-4 at the plate and contributing one run. Valerie Cagle and Alia Logoleo each recorded two hits, while McKenzie Clark notched the lone RBI for the Tigers.
On the mound, junior pitcher Brooke McCubbin started strong, registering two strikeouts in 1.1 innings of play. However, she was unable to contain NC State’s offense, ultimately falling to a 5-2 record on the year with the loss. Senior Millie Thompson entered the game in relief, pitching 4.2 innings and recording one strikeout before senior Regan Spencer took over in the seventh inning.
Game 2: Clemson Bounces Back with Commanding Win
Undeterred by their earlier loss, the Tigers came out swinging in game two, determined to even the score against NC State. Clemson wasted no time asserting their dominance, jumping to an early lead with a three-run first inning. McKenzie Clark’s leadoff single set the tone, followed by key hits from Lindsey Garcia and Maddie Moore to plate three runs and establish a 3-0 advantage after just one inning of play.
Continuing their offensive onslaught, Clemson extended their lead to 5-0 in the third inning, capitalizing on errors and timely hits to add two more runs to the scoreboard. Maddie Moore and Vieira each contributed RBIs, further solidifying Clemson’s control of the game.
The highlight of the game came in the bottom of the fourth inning, as Alia Logoleo delivered a decisive blow with a three-run homer, effectively sealing the victory for the Tigers. Logoleo’s powerful hit brought home Oda and Brown, extending Clemson’s lead to 8-0 and invoking the run-rule, ending the game after just five innings of play.
Clemson’s offensive prowess was on full display in game two, with eight different Tigers recording at least one hit. Lindsey Garcia led the charge, going 2-for-3 with two runs scored and one RBI. Alia Logoleo’s three RBIs, including her clutch homer, solidified her standout performance, while Maddie Moore contributed one hit and two RBIs to the Tigers’ commanding win.
Looking Ahead: Rubber Match at McWhorter Stadium
With the series tied at one game apiece, anticipation is high for the decisive rubber match between Clemson and NC State. The teams will face off at McWhorter Stadium tomorrow at noon on ACCNX, with both sides vying for victory in the series finale. Fans can secure their tickets online or at the gate prior to the start of the game, ensuring they don’t miss the thrilling conclusion to this exciting ACC showdown.
