Clemson Tigers Star Shines with Incredible Catch and Little League Home Run

Time is running out on Cam Cannarella’s collegiate baseball career, as the Clemson Tigers outfielder is projected to be a first-round pick in July’s MLB Draft. Widely regarded as one of the nation’s top college players and draft prospects, Cannarella has scouts raving about his hitting, defense, and overall makeup.

His performance against Florida State on Saturday showcased exactly why he’s so highly rated.

In a high-stakes ACC showdown with tournament seeding implications, Cannarella delivered two standout moments. First came an impressive defensive play, a jaw-dropping catch that robbed FSU’s Alex Lodise — a reminder that Cannarella originally came to Clemson as an infielder before injuries forced him to the outfield, where he’s flourished.

Later, he displayed hustle and baseball IQ with a Little League-style home run. After drilling a ball into the left-center gap for a likely double, he advanced to third when the center fielder slipped. As the throw to third got away and rolled near the dugout, Cannarella made a mad dash for home. Despite stumbling just short of the plate, he recovered in time to beat the throw and score.

The junior from Hartsville, S.C., is on track to become the highest-drafted player in Clemson history, potentially surpassing the No. 13 selections of Billy Spiers (1987) and Tyler Colvin (2006). MLB.com recently ranked him among the top 11 college players and No. 15 overall.

Following offseason labrum surgery, Cannarella hasn’t missed a beat. He’s hitting .337 with 16 doubles, 11 homers, 60 RBI, and 58 runs this season. Across his first two years at Clemson, he batted .363 with 18 home runs, 130 runs scored, and 24 stolen bases, earning All-American honors and the ACC Freshman of the Year title.