A Night of Tribute and Triumph
On a poignant evening at the newly-renovated Plainsman Park, Auburn’s baseball team faced Holy Cross in front of a record crowd of 5,718 spectators. The emotional heart of the game revolved around sophomore outfielder Cade Belyeu, who had just lost his mother, Staci, to cancer. Despite the overwhelming grief, Belyeu demonstrated incredible resilience and determination, making a powerful return to the diamond. His decision to play, though initially uncertain, was influenced by a heartfelt conversation with his father, Roger, who conveyed that Staci would have wanted Cade to take the field.
A Call of Support
Following the passing of his mother, Belyeu made one of his first calls to head baseball coach Butch Thompson, informing him of his intention to play. Thompson, understanding the gravity of the situation, was unsure if Belyeu would follow through with his commitment. Out of respect and concern, he reached out to Roger Belyeu to gauge the family’s wishes. Roger’s response was unwavering: his wife would have been proud to see her son carry on in such a significant moment. This guidance from his father provided the emotional anchor Belyeu needed to step up to the plate.
A Record-Breaking Night
The atmosphere at Plainsman Park was electric as the stands filled with fans eager to support their team. The crowd’s understanding of Belyeu’s personal struggle was palpable, and their cheering was a testament to the community’s solidarity. Belyeu’s performance that night was nothing short of inspiring. In his first at-bat, he hit a single, and in the sixth inning, he launched a solo home run to right-centerfield, propelling the Tigers to a 3-1 lead. The home run was a moment of triumph that transcended the game itself, serving as a tribute to his mother’s memory.
The Impact of the Home Run
The impact of Belyeu’s home run went far beyond the score. Coach Thompson, speaking to 1819 News, described it as "the most inspiring thing we’ve ever seen." The crowd’s ovation for Belyeu was a powerful display of empathy and support, underscoring the extraordinary nature of the evening. The home run, Thompson noted, was a demonstration of how the game of baseball can bring people together in the face of adversity. "We want to honor her, and I know Cade played for his mom today. That was the No. 1 thing that happened tonight. Some things are bigger than ball. This was one of those moments."
A Special Keepsake
Belyeu’s home run ball was caught by a young fan, who, recognizing the importance of the moment, returned it to the team. In a touching gesture, Coach Thompson presented the ball to Belyeu after the Tigers secured their 4-1 victory. This act of kindness from a young fan added an additional layer of meaning to the evening, highlighting the sense of community and mutual support that often emerges in times of hardship.
An Unforgettable Game
The game against Holy Cross was more than just a win for the Auburn Tigers; it was a profound moment of human resilience and the power of community. Teammates and fans alike were moved by Belyeu’s performance and the strength he showed. Junior second baseman Eric Snow reflected, “That was literally the best thing I’ve ever seen in baseball.” The night at Plainsman Park will be remembered not only for the record-breaking crowd and the Tigers’ victory but also for the poignant tribute to a mother whose legacy inspired her son to rise above his grief and play his heart out.
