Clemson star makes history by pitching perfect game

Clemson star Valerie Cagle added another accomplishment to her incredible career by making more history Wednesday night.

Cagle tossed a perfect game to lead No. 4 Clemson to an 18-0 win over Mercer in five innings at McWhorter Stadium.

The Tigers improve to 21-1 (3-0) with the win and have won 19 consecutive games at home dating back to last season.

“A dominating performance tonight all around for the Tigers,” head coach John Rittman said. “Obviously it started in the circle — Valerie Cagle pitching a perfect game — 51 pitches thrown tonight. Just total domination. I’m really proud of her.”

Cagle retired all 15 batters she faced, striking out eight of them. She was also 2-for-2 at the plate, with a pair of walks.

The junior had a double, an RBI and two runs scored, in addition to being perfect on the mound.

“I was definitely just telling myself, just hit a spot. I was trying to remind myself that it’s just a pitch, just a batter — not thinking about the bigger picture,” Cagle said. “It’s definitely a lot of fun. … The biggest thing is still just playing our game.”

The two-time All-American and 2021 ACC Player of the Year is off to an incredible start to her junior season.

Cagle is hitting .522 with seven doubles, eight homes runs and 24 RBIs — all team highs. As a pitcher, she is 9-1 with a 0.58 ERA. She has 74 strikeouts in 60 1/3 innings.

Up next, the Tigers will host the Clemson Classic this weekend with Bryant, Jacksonville and UNCG coming to town.

“I still say we have to stay humble and hungry,” Rittman said. “It’s a long season, but I love the way we’re playing ball right now.”