The Clemson Tigers' baseball program is gearing up for what could be a historic 2025 season. Following an impressive performance in the NCAA super regional last spring and hosting the Savannah Bananas, the team is now focused on achieving greater heights. Two prominent publications have already shown confidence in the Tigers, with Baseball America ranking them fourth and Perfect Game placing them eighth in their preseason rankings. The team's aspirations extend beyond regular-season success, aiming to return to the Men's College World Series for the first time since 2010 under Coach Erik Bakich's leadership.
Star Player Cam Cannarella Leads Offense
The heart of Clemson's offense lies in the hands of senior outfielder Cam Cannarella, who has emerged as one of the top players in college baseball. After being named an All-American in the previous season, Cannarella is expected to play a pivotal role once again. Despite battling a torn labrum injury throughout the year, he delivered outstanding performances, batting .337 with multiple hits in nearly half of his games. His contributions were crucial to the team's overall success, earning him recognition as a potential first-round draft pick in July.
Cannarella's career statistics are equally impressive, boasting a batting average of .363 over two seasons. He has accumulated 32 doubles, six triples, 18 home runs, and 107 RBIs, along with a solid on-base percentage of .440. In addition to his offensive prowess, Cannarella has demonstrated versatility by contributing 24 stolen bases. His resilience in playing through an injury only adds to his reputation as a formidable player. As the Tigers prepare for the upcoming season, Cannarella will undoubtedly be a key figure in driving the team forward.
Strengthened Roster Aims for Omaha
The Clemson Tigers have bolstered their roster significantly in preparation for the 2025 season. Pitcher Aidan Knaak, who earned National Freshman Pitcher-of-the-Year honors, returns after a stellar freshman campaign. Knaak's ability to strike out batters while maintaining a low ERA makes him a valuable asset to the pitching staff. The team has also tapped into the transfer portal and secured one of the top recruiting classes in the nation, further enhancing their depth and talent pool.
Knaak's performance last season was nothing short of remarkable. He posted a 5-1 record with a 3.35 ERA, striking out 108 batters in just 83.1 innings. His dominance on the mound was evident, as he allowed batters to hit only .221 against him. With such a strong foundation, the Tigers are well-positioned to challenge for a spot in the Men's College World Series. The season opener at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, promises to set the tone for what could be a memorable year for Clemson baseball.