Clemson lost to Pittsburgh, 8-5, in the opening game of their weekend softball series on April 10 at Vartabedian Field. The defeat brought Clemson’s record to 25-16 overall and 7-9 in Atlantic Coast Conference play, while Pittsburgh improved to 21-18 (7-9 ACC).
The game was marked by home runs from freshman Mac Pavese and sophomore Taylor Pipkins for Clemson. Pavese hit her fifth home run of the season with a three-run shot in the first inning, helping the Tigers take an early lead. Pipkins added a solo home run in the seventh inning, marking her third consecutive game with a homer.
Clemson collected nine hits during the contest. Pavese, Pipkins, and Jamison Brockenbrough each recorded two hits. Kiley Channell, Macey Cintron, and Marian Collins also contributed offensively for the Tigers.
Pittsburgh responded with three consecutive solo home runs in the third inning and took advantage of walks and wild pitches to tie and then surpass Clemson’s lead. The Panthers extended their advantage with additional runs scored off a walk and a two-run homer later in the game.
Pitcher Sierra Maness started for Clemson, throwing five innings with eight strikeouts but taking her seventh loss of the season (15-7). Abby Dunning faced three batters out of relief while Cintron pitched two-thirds of an inning.
The teams will continue their series on Saturday evening at Vartabedian Field.
