CLEMSON – Head baseball coach Erik Bakich is rallying Clemson fans to help out a Tiger family in need.
Bakich, set to enter his fourth season with the Tigers, took to his Instagram story Wednesday morning to raise support for freshman pitcher Jake Morris and his family after they suffered a tragedy Monday.
“Two days ago, Clemson baseball pitcher Jake Morris and his family experienced the unfortunate tragedy of their home burning down,” Bakich said, accompanied by a picture of the remains of the home.
Morris moved into Clemson only a few months ago after a standout high school career at Lugoff-Elgin, 30 miles northeast of Columbia. He was ranked the No. 2 lefty in South Carolina in the 2025 class and also served as the Demons’ quarterback for three seasons.
Now, Bakich is imploring Clemson fans to help him and his family in ways that go way beyond cheering for his success on the mound.
“If you would like to support Jake and his family with fire recovery expenses, please do so via the GoFundMe link below.”
The GoFundMe was created by Jamie Pringle on Tuesday with a $12,000 goal. In the first 18 hours, over 100 donors have combined to raise nearly $11,000. Several of Morris’ teammates, including catcher Nate Savoie, outfielder Ty Dalley, shortstop Tyler Lichtenberger, and veteran pitcher Aidan Knaak, are listed as donors.
The GoFundMe and outward support marks the second time in recent months that Bakich and his team have been outspoken in helping a former or current Tiger baseball player. This July, former Clemson infielder Tyler Corbitt was suddenly diagnosed with metastatic cancer. Bakich, as well as current and former Clemson coaches and players, took to social media to raise money for Corbitt’s medical expenses.
Over the course of a few weeks, more than 1,000 donations poured in, raising over $120,000 for the Corbitt family and Tyler’s treatment on a GoFundMe similar to the Morris’ campaign.
The baseball team was also a sponsor for a golf tournament fundraiser at Boscobel Golf and Country Club on October 26. According to the TigersFortyTyler.com official website, the tournament raised over $20,000 for the cause.
“This is where the Clemson community can get behind (Corbitt,)” Bakich said ahead of the tournament. “Very appreciative of everyone who signed up for a foursome at the golf fundraiser, we sold out of all 36 foursomes.”
Now, Clemson fans have a similar opportunity to make a lasting impact on a family facing adversity that transcends anything on a field. The link to support the Morrises is listed above.
Photo by Bart Boatwright