The Virginia Tech baseball team lost to Clemson, 10-8, during the regular season finale at English Field on May 16. Despite an early lead and a strong effort from senior catcher Henry Cooke in his final home game, the Hokies were unable to complete a series sweep.
The game held special meaning as it marked Senior Day for Virginia Tech. The team recognized twelve seniors before the first pitch, with seven participating in Saturday’s contest. Cooke led the Hokies by going 2-for-3 with three RBIs, while Hudson Lutterman added a three-run home run in the first inning.
Virginia Tech started strong by scoring four runs in the first inning, including home runs from Ethan Gibson and Lutterman. However, Clemson responded quickly and took control of the game by scoring five runs in the third inning and gradually extending their lead throughout the later innings.
Clemson’s offense saw eight starters record hits and six drive in at least one run. The teams combined to use seventeen pitchers—tying for fourth most in an Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) game involving Virginia Tech.
In their last opportunity during the ninth inning, Virginia Tech rallied by bringing nine batters to the plate and narrowing Clemson’s lead to two runs. Cooke delivered a two-RBI single up the middle with two outs but Lutterman’s fly out ended hopes of a comeback.
Looking ahead, Virginia Tech will enter postseason play as the No. 7 seed at the ACC Baseball Championship starting Wednesday, May 20 at Truist Field in Charlotte.
