No. 3 Clemson Dominates No. 7 Florida State with a 15-5 Victory in Game 1 of Doubleheader

https://icaro.icaromediagroup.com/system/images/photos/16125210/original/open-uri20240323-18-us5wih?1711233455
ICARO Media Group
News
23/03/2024 22h28

In an impressive comeback, the No. 3 Clemson Tigers rallied from an early 4-0 deficit to secure a resounding 15-5 victory over the No. 7 Florida State Seminoles in the first game of a doubleheader at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The Tigers now lead the series 1-0, improving their overall record to 20-2 and their ACC standing to 3-1, while the Seminoles fall to 19-1 overall and 3-1 in ACC play.

The game was called in the seventh inning due to the 10-run rule, capping off a dominant performance by Clemson. The Tigers showcased their offensive firepower, led by Jaime Ferrer who blasted a grand slam in the top of the first inning. Responding swiftly, Will Taylor grounded a run-scoring single in the bottom of the first inning to put the Tigers on the board.

In a game filled with momentum swings, the Tigers continued their surge in the second inning when Cam Cannarella launched a three-run homer, his fourth of the season, to tie the score at 4-4. Clemson took the lead in the third inning with Andrew Ciufo's fielder's choice, followed by Cannarella's timely two-out run-scoring single.

Florida State's Alex Lodise managed to cut into Clemson's lead with a leadoff home run in the top of the fifth inning. However, the Tigers responded immediately, as Jacob Hinderleider smacked a two-run homer in the bottom of the fifth inning, extending their lead. Continuing their offensive onslaught, Blake Wright added a three-run homer, his 11th of the season, later in the inning to give Clemson a commanding 11-5 lead.

Not willing to relent, the Tigers further solidified their dominance in the seventh inning. Alden Mathes delivered a pivotal two-run double, followed by Nolan Nawrocki's two-out run-scoring single, pushing the Tigers' lead to an insurmountable 15-5.

Ethan Darden started on the mound for Clemson, earning the win with an impressive performance. Darden showcased his skill and determination, allowing seven hits, five runs (four earned), and one walk while tallying four strikeouts in a career-long 6.1 innings pitched. On the opposing side, Florida State's Cam Leiter endured a difficult outing, surrendering six hits, six runs, and five walks with three strikeouts in just 2.2 innings pitched.

With this victory, Clemson has sent a clear message to the rest of the ACC that they are a force to be reckoned with. The Tigers' explosive offense, coupled with solid pitching performances like Darden's, leaves them well-positioned as they continue to navigate the highly competitive conference schedule.

The series between the Tigers and the Seminoles will conclude with the second game of the doubleheader later today, where both teams will look to make their mark and seize the opportunity for a series win.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

Related