Clemson Baseball Honors Military in Opening Weekend Sweep

Tigers use series against Army to celebrate service members and veterans

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Clemson baseball swept Army West Point in their opening weekend series, but the bigger story was how the Tigers used the matchup to honor the military. Head coach Erik Bakich presented an American flag made of baseball bats to the Army coach, and Clemson players took time during the games to shake hands and take photos with veterans in attendance. The Tigers also recognized fallen Clemson alumni who died serving the country.

Why it matters

As a former military school, Clemson has a deep connection to patriotism and honoring those who serve. By making the opening weekend series about more than just baseball, the Tigers were able to showcase their appreciation for the Army players as future defenders of the country and recognize the sacrifices of veterans and fallen soldiers.

The details

Bakich started the weekend by presenting an American flag made of 13 red, white and blue baseball bats to Army coach Chris Tracz, with a message thanking the cadets for protecting the country. During the fourth inning of Friday's game, Clemson players left the dugout to shake hands and take photos with veterans in attendance, and the Army players joined them. On Saturday, Clemson displayed a board honoring Clemson alumni who died serving the U.S.

  • The flag presentation took place before the series opener on Friday, February 14, 2026.
  • The in-game tribute to veterans happened during the fourth inning of the first game on Friday, February 14, 2026.
  • The memorial board for fallen Clemson alumni was displayed during the doubleheader on Saturday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Erik Bakich

The head coach of the Clemson baseball team, who initiated the various tributes to the military throughout the opening weekend series.

Chris Tracz

The head coach of the Army West Point baseball team, who received the American flag from Bakich before the series.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“To Army Baseball, As the future leaders, warriors, and protectors of our great country, it is an honor to compete against you this weekend. Thank you for making the USA the greatest country in the world! God bless, Clemson Baseball.”

— Erik Bakich, Clemson Baseball Head Coach (Clemson Baseball (Twitter)

“We mentioned it, but it's one thing to mention it. It's one thing to fully embrace it, and I think our fans were just as excited to take pictures with those kids. So, our fans are great.”

— Erik Bakich, Clemson Baseball Head Coach (SI.com)

What’s next

Clemson will continue its season with a home series against Wofford College starting on February 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Clemson's opening weekend series against Army showcased the program's deep commitment to honoring the military and recognizing the sacrifices of service members and veterans. By going beyond just playing baseball, the Tigers were able to make a meaningful impact and strengthen the bond between the two schools.