Buzzing at the Ballpark

Author: Taylor Hamler | @taylor.hamler

The Corn Crib was converted into Andy’s room Friday night as the Normal CornBelters hosted Toy Story night, bringing together baseball and one of the most iconic Pixar movies of all time. The evening involved a buzzlighter corny bobblehead for the first 250 fans in attendance, sponsored by CEFCU. Additions to the bar, “Huskers” were amended as well, with a specialty drink listed as the “buzzlighter drink”. ’Belters fans entered the ballpark wearing Toy Story themed attire. Staff around the concourse also participated in the atmosphere by wearing the iconic red cowgirl hat of the character “Jeese”. 

Friday evening marked the second promotion night of the 2026 season. An action-packed schedule is just taking shape for the ‘Belters. During the first promo night, “Bark in the Park”, the Corn Crib gathered hundreds of dogs and a couple thousand of fans throughout the entire Bloomington-Normal community. The next set promo event is scheduled for June 6, where the CornBelter’s very own Kernels Collegiate League will feature “Alternate Rules Night”, and world famous Tyler the balancing act sponsored by CSL Plasma.  

While Toy Story night kept fans engaged throughout the evening, the focus eventually shifted to the action on the field as the CornBelters took on their division rivals, the Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp. 

The ’Belters backed up the festive atmosphere with an 11-7 victory over the Pistol Shrimp Friday night behind another explosive offensive performance. Short stop Ben Voegele was the highlight of the night for Normal. Voegele went 3-4 at the plate, hit his first homerun of the season, had 4 RBI’s, accounted for 4 runs scored, and was an aggressive baserunner, adding a stolen base to his impressive stat line for the night. The home run for Voegele came in the bottom of the eighth, significantly helping increase the ’Belters lead and chances to come out with the crucial division game victory. Voegele was later deemed the player of the game. 

To add to the dominant offensive performance, center fielder Michael Kuska contributed 2 hits, and 3 RBI’s, including a double. Right fielder Carter Bleakney finished with 2 hits, a home run, and 2 RBI’s. Infielders Nolan McCrossin and Tyler Thompson each drove in a run. 

The offensive outburst for Normal continues to be on full display early in the 2026 season. Players continue to produce at the plate throughout the entire lineup. The CornBelters are second in hits in the Prospect League, with 102. Reliable run production has helped Normal start off the season 6-4. 

The CornBelters are looking to keep the pace and increase the momentum as they play the Pistol Shrimp once more Saturday night at Illinois Valley.