News Summary
Clemson University has announced the transfer of All-American outfielder Ryan Wideman from Western Kentucky University. The 6’5″, 204-pound player posted an impressive .398 batting average during the 2025 season. With notable achievements including 20 doubles and 45 stolen bases, Wideman’s addition is expected to fill the gap left by star Cam Cannarella ahead of the upcoming season. Coach Erik Bakich aims to strengthen the team further with additional transfers as they prepare for a competitive push.
Clemson, SC – Clemson University has secured the commitment of All-American outfielder Ryan Wideman, who has transferred from Western Kentucky University. Wideman, standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 204 pounds, is expected to be a significant addition to the Tigers baseball program as they prepare for the upcoming season.
During the 2025 season at Western Kentucky, Wideman had an impressive performance, batting .398 over the course of 60 games. In addition to his high batting average, he tallied 20 doubles, 10 home runs, and 68 RBIs. His speed on the bases was notable, with 45 stolen bases that placed him among the top five nationally in that category. Wideman’s exceptional skill set earned him multiple accolades, including being named both the Conference USA Player of the Year and the Newcomer of the Year, along with a spot on the first-team all-conference roster. He was also recognized with All-American honors from the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association and Perfect Game.
Wideman’s transfer comes as Clemson looks to fill the void left by star center fielder Cam Cannarella, who is projected to be a high draft pick in the upcoming 2025 MLB Draft, scheduled for July 13-14. Cannarella is currently ranked No. 155 in the MLB.com top 200 draft prospects and faces a crucial decision regarding his professional future depending on the draft outcome.
In addition to his achievements at Western Kentucky, Wideman has an impressive background from his time at Georgia Highlands College. Over two seasons there, he maintained a formidable batting average of .423 and hit a total of 22 home runs, which earned him junior college All-American honors in both 2023 and 2024. With one year of NCAA eligibility remaining, Wideman has the potential to have a significant impact on the Clemson baseball program.
Clemson baseball head coach Erik Bakich has expressed his commitment to building a competitive roster aimed at making a push toward the College World Series. The team is also focusing on shoring up its lineup by bringing in additional transfer players. Recent additions include Ty Dalley from Mercer, Tyler Lichtenberger from App State, and Bryce Clavon from Georgia. These strategic moves come as the program faces challenges from expiring player eligibility and the impending MLB draft.
Historically, Clemson has had a strong baseball program but has faced difficulties in advancing beyond the NCAA regionals, having hosted these competitions for the past three seasons without reaching the super regional. The last appearance in the College World Series for the team was in 2010, highlighting a long-standing goal for improvements.
In a personal connection to the university, Ryan Wideman is the son of former Clemson basketball player Tom Wideman, adding a familial dimension to his transfer and reinforcing his connection to the school.
As the Tigers prepare for the new season, the acquisition of Wideman potentially positions the team to enhance its performance and increase its chances of breaking through into the upper echelons of college baseball.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Louisville Baseball Celebrates 20th Anniversary of Jim Patterson Stadium
Louisville Cardinals Defeat WKU Hilltoppers in Baseball Showdown
Louisville Dominates WKU in 20th Anniversary Celebration
Additional Resources
- WKU Sports
- Wikipedia: Ryan Wideman
- Greenville Online
- Google Search: Ryan Wideman Clemson Baseball
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Baseball
- Tuscaloosa News
- Google News: Ryan Wideman transfer
