Clemson endured a late rally from USC Upstate before a three-run eighth iced an 8-5 victory for the Tigers at Doug Kingsmore Stadium, Tuesday. Bryar Hawkins’ three-run homer jumpstarted the offense and highlighted a four-run first inning. Clemson led 5-0 after two innings before the Spartans clawed their way back, eventually knotting the game at five runs, apiece. But a long ball off the bat of Jonathan French snapped the tie and put the Tigers back on top 6-5. Dylan Brewer followed with a two-run homer, providing an exclamation point and breathing room for the Clemson bullpen.
Alex Edmondson (1-0, 4.15) picked up the win in relief despite giving up two earned runs in his only inning of work. Lefthander Ryan Ammons (3.00) retired all three batters he faced to register his second save.
Clemson (8-0) will now turn its attention to rivalry weekend against South Carolina. Game 1 of the series is at Founders Park in Columbia, Friday. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. Segra Field in Columbia will host the neutral site game at 4 p.m., Saturday, followed by the series final in Clemson at 3 p.m., Sunday.
