Cordell Clinkingbeard had already made up his mind about where he wanted to play college baseball even before completing his series of campus visits. His decision further enriches Nebraska’s roster of in-state talent for 2026.
On Monday, the Papillion-La Vista South junior announced his commitment to the Huskers as a power-hitting corner infielder and right-handed pitcher. In addition to Nebraska, Clinkingbeard visited Baylor, Creighton, and Kansas State, and had offers from Minnesota and Butler.
“I was drawn to the fact that I’m close to home,” Clinkingbeard said. “I just loved it.”
Standing six feet tall, Clinkingbeard is currently rated as the No. 2 prospect in Nebraska for the 2026 class by Prep Baseball Nebraska. With this commitment, Nebraska now boasts the top four in-state players, including Brody Jindra from Elkhorn South and Cal Anthony and Braden Caito from Creighton Prep. Clinkingbeard becomes the fifth two-way player and the sixth recruit from Nebraska among the eight commitments.
The Huskers extended an offer to Clinkingbeard on August 1, the first day that schools could officially recruit players entering their junior year. After visiting multiple campuses, he took a couple of weeks to make his decision, considering factors such as proximity to home, the coaching staff, and his familiarity with most of his fellow recruits.
Initially projected as a potential college catcher, Clinkingbeard shifted his focus to playing first and third base to continue pitching. His offensive skills are notable; he led all in-state players during a Futures Games summer workout with a maximum exit velocity exceeding 103 mph and consistently makes contact.
On the mound, Clinkingbeard can reach speeds of 93 mph with his fastball, complemented by a curveball and an evolving changeup. When his command is sharp, he racks up strikeouts, he noted.
Clinkingbeard will be the first player from Papillion-La Vista South to join the Nebraska baseball team since outfielder Aaron Palensky in 2020.
“I’m relieved, happy, and excited,” Clinkingbeard stated. “I’m ready to get started.”
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