CLEMSON, S.C. — Clemson wrapped up its Palmetto Series matchup with a 3-1 loss to in-state rival South Carolina on Tuesday night. Despite a late push, the Tigers couldn’t overcome an early deficit in the series finale.
Clemson’s offense was limited throughout the game, managing just a few key hits. Freshman Mac Pavese and senior Jamison Brockenbrough each contributed singles, while sophomore Macey Cintron provided the lone highlight at the plate with her fifth home run of the season.
The defeat moves Clemson to 27-17 overall, while South Carolina improves to 24-20.
South Carolina wasted no time setting the tone, putting pressure on Clemson in the opening inning. A combination of a walk, a hit-by-pitch, and a fielder’s choice created an early scoring opportunity, which the Gamecocks capitalized on with back-to-back singles to take a 2-0 lead.
From there, both teams struggled to generate offense, with pitching and defense controlling the pace through the middle innings. Clemson’s best chance to respond came in the sixth inning. Kylee Johnson drew a leadoff walk after a full-count battle, and Brockenbrough followed with a base hit to right field. A well-placed sacrifice bunt by Kiley Channell advanced both runners into scoring position, but the rally stalled on a groundout, leaving the Tigers scoreless.
South Carolina added an insurance run in the seventh inning with a solo home run, extending the lead to 3-0.
Clemson attempted a late comeback in the bottom of the seventh when Cintron sent a solo shot over the fence to break up the shutout. However, the surge came too late, as the Gamecocks held on for the 3-1 victory.
In the circle, Sierra Maness went the distance for Clemson, tossing a complete game while recording one strikeout. The junior falls to 15-8 on the season with the loss.
Up Next
Clemson returns to action at home on Friday, April 17, when they begin a series against Virginia. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m.
