Tough times for once proud program
These are tough times for Clemson baseball. Last season was the team’s first losing season since 1957 and this season the Tigers are in danger of missing the ACC Tournament for the first time in program history.
On the Sluggo Podcast last night we discussed the state of the program with JP Priester of AllClemson.com. (queued up to the baseball segment) and had an honest conversation about where the program is under Monte Lee.
We even discussed what could happen if Clemson fails to make the ACC Tournament.
Pitchers not being developed
One thing that stood out to Priester was the lack of development of the pitching staff and the ramifications that has on the entire staff as the season progresses.
When the starters have a difficult time making it through 3 or 4 innings on a consistent basis that wears on the bullpen over time and over a long season, especially if there’s trust in a minimal number of guys in the pen.
Wagner’s historical season not enough
That’s not to say there aren’t issues on the offensive side, too as we discussed the struggles of Dylan Brewer and Caden Grice, two players that were thought to be top bats on the team headed into the season.
Max Wagner’s lumber has carried the team most of the season, but even his ridiculous numbers haven’t been enough to keep the Tigers afloat.
Making ACC Tournament far from given
Clemson is in real danger of missing the ACC Tournament, currently sitting at 6-14 in conference play.
Twelve of fourteen teams make the ACC Tournament and Clemson currently resides thirteenth in the standings ahead of only Boston College, while Duke and North Carolina are slightly ahead of the Tigers at 8-13 each.
With three ACC series to go there has to be a sense of urgency surrounding this team, but the schedule ahead looks daunting.
Georgia Tech comes to Clemson this weekend, before the Tigers travel to Virginia May 13-15, and close the season by hosting Boston College May 19-21.
Let’s hope the series finale vs. the Eagles isn’t the final game of the season for this team.
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