After losing to Kentucky and watching its quest for a second straight Super Regional appearance crumble away, Clemson baseball knew it had some work to do.
Head coach Erik Bakich knew he had to make some roster moves in the offseason to get back to competing in 2026. The Tigers won their first regional game over USC Upstate before collapsing late against West Virginia and then getting smoked against Kentucky, eliminating Clemson from the postseason far earlier than expected.
Offseason needs like pitching and some big-time bats were necessary for Bakich to prioritize if he wanted to get the Tigers back to Omaha for the first time since 2010.
Bakich took care of a big need this weekend, landing Sun Belt Freshman of the Year Tyler Lichtenberger from App State after a two-day visit during the week.
Breaking: Tyler Lichtenberger has committed to Clemson after a two day visit there this week.
— Andrew Riedell (@RiedellAndrew) June 7, 2025
Lichtenberger was the Sun Belt Freshman of the Year this season and was named to the Brooks Wallace Award Watch List this season. pic.twitter.com/8FnFye68YF
Lichtenberger put up some big numbers as a freshman for App State this season, hitting .341 with three home runs and 37 RBIs. He also had 13 doubles and four triples as he had an on-base percentage of .410 and an OPS of .879. He was one of the best freshmen in the country and now he's going to bring that elite bat and solid infield play to Clemson.
Bakich targeted a major need and made quick work of the recruitment of Lichtenberger who likely would have had many suitors if he stayed in the portal for any longer.
You have to give Bakich some major credit for this addition as Lichtenberger is going to be a really good player for years and the Tigers were able to bring him home.
Big win for Bakich and Co.