CLEMSON, SC (WRCB) -- Matthew Crownover didn't show much rust in his long-awaited return to the mound.
The former Ringgold High standout made his collegiate debut for Clemson on Wednesday, throwing three innings for the Tigers against Winthrop. It was Crownover's first start in a year after he tore an elbow ligament in the first month of his final prep season.
The left-handed gave up just one run on one hit -- a lead-off solo home run in the third inning -- and struck out four. He did not factor in the decision as the Tigers lost 5-2 in 11 innings.
Crownover was rated as one of the top college pitchers in the countries emerged as a potential Major League Baseball draft pick after a dominating junior season, but the elbow injury suffered in the first start of his final prep season derailed that possibility.
Crownover went to well-known surgeon Dr. James Andrews, who performed "Tommy John" ligament replacement surgery a week later. He had previously committed to Clemson, and the Tigers honored his scholarship offer and helped in his rehab.
