Clemson Slugger Collin Priest Remains Sidelined with Injury

Head coach Erik Bakich says Priest is "not close" to returning to the lineup.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Clemson baseball player Collin Priest, a first baseman and designated hitter, has yet to play this season due to a hamstring injury. Head coach Erik Bakich provided an update, stating that Priest is "not close" to returning to the lineup. Last season, Priest hit 12 home runs, 11 doubles, and drove in 52 runs, providing a power boost to the Tigers' offense.

Why it matters

Clemson's baseball team has struggled to start ACC play, and getting Priest back in the lineup could provide a much-needed power boost. The Tigers have hit just 34 home runs across their first 27 games, so Priest's return would be a welcome addition to the lineup.

The details

Priest, a first baseman and designated hitter, has been sidelined with a hamstring injury and has not played at all this season for the Clemson Tigers. Head coach Erik Bakich was asked about Priest's status after a recent loss to Miami, and he bluntly stated that Priest is "not close" to returning to the lineup.

  • Priest has been out since the start of the 2026 season.

The players

Collin Priest

A first baseman and designated hitter for the Clemson Tigers baseball team who hit 12 home runs, 11 doubles, and drove in 52 runs last season.

Erik Bakich

The head coach of the Clemson Tigers baseball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Not close.”

— Erik Bakich, Head Coach

The takeaway

Clemson's offense has struggled to start the season, and the continued absence of power-hitting first baseman Collin Priest is a significant blow. The Tigers will need to find other ways to generate offense until Priest is able to return from his hamstring injury, which does not appear to be happening anytime soon.