Clemson, SC – Zack Erwin pitched a gem for Clemson and the Tigers defeated Duke 8-1 Saturday afternoon at Doug Kingsmore for their fifth win in a row.

Zack Erwin had another strong performance for Clemson going 8.2 innings and only giving up five hits, one run and one earned  run.  Erwin had nine strikeouts on 115 pitches.  Pat Krall came in and got the final out with the bases loaded in the ninth.

Steven Duggar went 2-4 with three RBI’s in the game.  Tyler Krieger was also 2-4 while Chase Pinder went 2-3.

Duke jumped out to an early lead as they plated one run in the first.

The lead didn’t last long as Clemson bounced right back in the bottom of the first.  With one out Steven Duggar singled to right.  Tyler Krieger followed with another single.  Reed Rohlman kept the hit parade going with a single to right to score Duggar.  Chris Okey reached on a fielder’s choice scoring Krieger.  After one the Tigers led 2-1.

Clemson took control in the bottom of the fourth.  Chris Okey singled to start the rally.  Chase Pinder singled to left on a full count.  Tyler Slaton singled to left to score Okey.  With two outs Eli White walked to load the bases.  Steven Duggar doubled to left center to clear the bases.  Tyler Krieger followed with another single to score Duggar and put Clemson up 7-1.

In the bottom of  the eighth Clemson added an insurance run.  Chris Okey walked before Drew Wharton singled.  Tyler Slaton was hit in the helmet to load the bases.  A balk allowed Okey to score.

The Tigers moved to 22-18 overall and 11-9 in the ACC with the win.  Clemson goes for the sweep Sunday at 1 PM.  With the win Clemson has now won their last three ACC series