Following an exhilarating winter season for Clemson's basketball teams, attention now turns to the impending 2026 baseball season. The team's outfield is shaping up to be a compelling blend of fresh faces and experienced players, promising an exciting year ahead. This season's roster includes notable transfers and returning talent, each bringing unique skills and potential contributions to the field. Fans are eagerly anticipating how these players will perform, with a particular focus on the new dynamics they introduce to the team's strategy and play.
Clemson Tigers' Outfield Roster Unveiled for 2026 Season
The Clemson Tigers are gearing up for the 2026 baseball season with a revamped outfield, featuring a promising mix of incoming talent and returning stars. The lineup is set to include several key players, each bringing unique strengths and backgrounds to the team.
Sophomore Nate Savoie, a significant portal acquisition from Loyola Marymount, is expected to be a versatile asset. In 2025, Savoie earned First Team Freshman All-American honors as an outfielder and Second Team as a catcher. His ability to play multiple positions, coupled with his ranking as the 45th overall prospect for the 2027 MLB draft and the 6th ACC prospect for the same year, indicates he will be a crucial player for the Tigers, potentially filling the designated hitter role frequently.
Junior Tryston McCladdie, hailing from Harlem, Georgia, has consistently contributed across various positions during his tenure in Tiger Town. While he offers flexibility in both the infield and outfield, he is predominantly projected as an infield starter, providing diverse options for the team throughout the season.
Bryce Clavon, a transfer from the University of Georgia, steps into a pivotal role, likely taking over center field. Clavon, ranked as the 25th prospect in the ACC for 2027, demonstrated strong offensive capabilities with a .333 batting average in 27 games for the Bulldogs. His arrival is anticipated to mitigate the impact of previous player departures.
Ty Dalley, another transfer from Mercer, is a strong candidate to start in right field. Dalley was a standout player for the Mercer Bears, showcasing impressive power. He has already made an impact in the Clemson community, notably with a powerful performance in a fall game against the Savannah Bananas.
Veteran presence comes in the form of Senior Jack Crighton from Rochester Hills, Michigan. Crighton has been a reliable performer for the Tigers, boasting a career batting average of .286 and a slugging percentage of .363. He is expected to start in left field but could see action at other positions, including first base, given his strong performance there in 2024.
The competitive outfield also features freshman Briggs Sullivan from Mt. Pleasant’s Oceanside Academy, ranked as the 11th best player in South Carolina and the 2nd best shortstop by Perfect Game. Sullivan will be vying for a starting spot amidst a talented group.
Jackson Moore from Hartsville joins the team, following in the footsteps of former Clemson outfielder Cam Cannarella, also from Hartsville. Expectations are high for Moore to continue the tradition of successful players transitioning from the Red Foxes to the Tigers.
The upcoming season promises to be a showcase of both emerging talent and seasoned expertise for the Clemson Tigers' outfield. The strategic integration of these diverse players will undoubtedly be a key factor in the team's performance, offering fans a compelling narrative of growth, competition, and potential success. Their collective efforts will define the team's defensive strength and offensive prowess, making every game a testament to their dedication and skill.
