Clemson Star Has Message for Tiger Fans on Decision to Return
By: Staff Report June 12, 2024

Clemson shortstop Andrew Ciufo is set to use his final year of eligibility and return to the diamond for the Tigers in 2025, as The Clemson Insider reported Wednesday morning.

Head coach Erik Bakich also confirmed Ciufo’s return when meeting with the media on Wednesday, and on Wednesday afternoon, Ciufo took to social media with a statement and message for Clemson fans on his decision to come back for another season with the Tigers.

From Ciufo, in a post on X:

“Dear Clemson fans,

“Last August, I arrived at Clemson not knowing what to expect. It was a new atmosphere that I had heard amazing things about. But as any new graduate transfer would, I came in not understanding how incredible this year would be.

“Being a part of Team 127 has had a huge impact on my life and has created life-long relationships and memories. While I was unable to play the second half of the season, I wouldn’t have changed a thing about the ride with these guys.

“Few players have the privilege of playing at such an amazing program and under coaches as dedicated and influential as Coach Bakich and the rest of the staff. This is the best coaching staff in the country.

“With that said, I will be returning for the 2025 season! Team 128 has unfinished business, and I am pumped to be a part of another special team.

“To Coach Bakich, the baseball staff, my teammates and the Clemson community, the goal is a national championship, and you will get everything I’ve got to turn that dream into a reality.

“Thank you for everything, and I’ll see you back at DKS next spring!

“Go Tigers!”

After spending his first four seasons at Georgetown, Ciufo transferred to Clemson ahead of the 2024 season, taking over as the Tigers’ starting shortstop. However, a torn ACL suffered in early April at Notre Dame would cut his season short.

Ciufo started each of the Tigers’ first 27 games, hitting .280 with two home runs, two doubles, one triple and 16 RBI. He did not register a fielding error over his final 21 games, finishing the year with a .955 fielding percentage.