. 4 Clemson stormed ahead with 10 runs in the initial three innings of the game against Georgia Tech. The team’s relentless performance saw seven Tigers securing multiple hits, culminating in an impressive 11-4 triumph over their opponents at Doug Kingsmore Stadium during the first game of a doubleheader on Friday afternoon.
Series Advantage: Clemson Takes Lead
With this resounding victory, Clemson solidified a 1-0 lead in the series, showcasing their dominance in both overall and ACC standings. The Tigers’ season record now stands at 35-9, with an impressive 16-6 record in ACC play, while Georgia Tech’s overall record dropped to 27-16, with an 11-11 record in ACC competition.
Key Moments in the Game
The game’s intensity ignited early on as Alden Mathes launched a leadoff homer in the opening inning, extending his hitting streak to an impressive 10 games. Following suit, Blake Wright continued his hot streak with a single, pushing his hitting streak to an outstanding 14 games. The momentum continued as Tristan Bissetta’s two-out double drove Wright home, setting the tone for Clemson’s offensive onslaught.
Although Georgia Tech managed to score an unearned run in the second inning, Clemson swiftly retaliated, adding five runs in the bottom of the frame. Notable contributions came from Cam Cannarella’s clutch two-out, two-run single and Jack Crighton’s pivotal two-out, two-run double.
The third inning witnessed a back-and-forth exchange, with Georgia Tech responding with two runs, only to be countered by Clemson’s Jacob Hinderleider and Wright, extending Clemson’s lead to 10-3 with a barrage of hits, including Wright’s 17th homer of the year.
Closing Chapters
As the game progressed, both teams continued to display offensive prowess, with Matthew Ellis launching a solo homer for Georgia Tech in the seventh inning, met by Hinderleider’s run-scoring single for Clemson.
Pitching Dominance
Clemson’s victory was bolstered by a stellar pitching performance from reliever Lucas Mahlstedt (4-0), who effectively stifled Georgia Tech’s offense, allowing only four hits, one run, and two walks while recording three strikeouts in 4.2 innings pitched. In contrast, Georgia Tech’s starter Aeden Finateri (5-2) endured a challenging outing, surrendering seven runs on seven hits in just 2.0 innings pitched, ultimately shouldering the loss for his team.
