Asserting Dominance
In an impressive display of skill and dominance at McWhorter Stadium, the No. 12/14 Clemson Softball team secured an emphatic 8-0 run-rule victory over Gardner-Webb. Clemson wasted no time establishing control, surging ahead with a commanding performance that included a half dozen runs in the first two innings, followed by additional insurance runs in the third and fifth frames. This victory propels Clemson to an impressive 18-6 season record, while the Runnin’ Bulldogs slip to 20-8.
Pitching Brilliance
Pitching played a pivotal role in Clemson’s success, led by left-handed pitcher Millie Thompson, who notched her third win of the season. Thompson’s efficiency on the mound was exemplary, needing only 35 pitches, with 25 strikes, to strike out four batters over three innings. Senior Regan Spencer and freshman Olivia Duncan provided solid relief pitching, each contributing a single inning to secure the win, with Spencer adding one strikeout to her impressive season total, now at 20.
Offensive Standouts
At the plate, redshirt senior Alia Logoleo emerged as a standout performer for the Tigers, leading the team with three RBIs. Logoleo’s highlight reel included a jaw-dropping two-run shot that exited McWhorter Stadium at an astounding 79 miles per hour exit velocity, clearing the left-field berm entirely. Logoleo further solidified the victory with a final RBI in the bottom of the fifth inning, bringing McKenzie Clark home.
Multi-Hit Contributions
Contributing to Clemson’s offensive onslaught were Valerie Cagle and Aby Vieira, both delivering multi-hit performances, going 2-for-3 with two RBIs each. Cagle’s contributions included a sac fly in the first inning, followed by a triple off the left-field wall to bring home Arielle Oda. Vieira showcased her hitting prowess with a two-out double to right center, tallying both of her RBIs in the opening frame.
Stellar Performances
Arielle Oda herself had a perfect night at the plate, going 2-for-2 with a walk, while also contributing to Clemson’s scoring with two runs plated. Other Tigers making offensive contributions included Alex Brown, Julia Bomharddt, Cagle, and Logoleo, each adding one run. Freshman Kylee Johnson showcased her speed on the base paths, stealing her eighth base of the season in the fourth inning.
Upcoming Action: Clemson vs. North Carolina
Looking ahead, Clemson concludes its homestand with a highly anticipated three-game ACC series against North Carolina at McWhorter Stadium. Action is scheduled to commence on Friday, March 15 at 6 p.m. on ACCNX. Fans eager to witness the excitement can secure tickets for all three games online or at the gate on the day of each matchup, ensuring an electrifying weekend of collegiate softball action.
