Clemson Baseball Revamps Visitor Bullpen After Controversy

Changes aim to improve safety and fan experience following complaints about proximity to players.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Clemson University's baseball program has made significant changes to the visitor bullpen area at its stadium following a controversy last season. Several visiting coaches criticized the standing room-only setup, which they said allowed rowdy fans to get dangerously close to players warming up in the bullpen.

Why it matters

The changes are an effort by Clemson to address safety concerns and improve the overall experience for visiting teams. Bullpen interactions between players and fans have become a point of emphasis in college baseball in recent years.

The details

Last season, one visiting coach described Clemson's visitor bullpen as "bogus" and said it allowed "drunk frat guys" to get too close to pitchers. The new setup features an enclosed, elevated bullpen area that provides more distance between players and spectators.

  • The changes were implemented ahead of the 2026 baseball season.

The players

Clemson University

The host school and home team whose baseball stadium and facilities were the subject of the controversy.

Visiting coaches

Coaches from opposing teams who criticized the previous setup of the visitor bullpen at Clemson's baseball stadium.

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What’s next

Clemson officials will monitor the new bullpen setup during the 2026 season to ensure it addresses the previous safety and fan interaction concerns.

The takeaway

The changes to Clemson's visitor bullpen highlight the growing emphasis on player safety and fan experience in college baseball, as programs work to find the right balance between access and appropriate boundaries.