FSU softball defeats Clemson to win ACC Tournament Championship

FSU softball (52-5) comes from behind to defeat the Clemson Tigers 8-6 in the ACC Tournament Championship.

The game began with Mack Leonard on the mound and Kalei Harding replacing Leonard at first base, and the move immediately backfired with Harding committing two errors in the first inning that led to two Clemson runs.

However, Harding would ultimately atone for the errors with an RBI single and a home run later in the game. Clemson would not go quietly as they scored three runs in the top of the second to take a 4-3 lead.

The Harding home run tied the game at 4-4 after three innings, and Clemson took the lead again on a solo home run in the top of the fourth.

However, a four-run bottom of the sixth innning proved to be enough for the Noles to recapture the ACC Tournament Championship.

The difference-maker in the inning was a Mack Leonard three-run home run with a 1-2 count. However, pinch-runner Amaya Ross made a huge play, stealing third base and scoring on a shallow sacrifice fly to tie the game before the Leonard home run.

Kathyrn Sandercock replaced Danielle Watson in the fourth inning and allowed six hits, no walks, one run, and three strikeouts. Harding and Devyn Flaherty has two hits and two RBI. It was a game that saw FSU’s defense commit some uncharacteristic errors that changed the game early, but as usual, the Noles continued to put pressure on Clemson with walks and four stolen bases.

It’s the 18th ACC Tournament Championship for the Noles as they reclaim their rightful spot among the ACC Conference.

FSU softball will now await to see what national seed they will have when the announcements take place on Selection Sunday evening. Make sure you check Chopchat for more analysis once we find out where they’ll play.