Home Opener Recap vs. Clinton (5/27/26)

Author: Taylor Hamler

The Normal CornBelters paved the way to their first victory of the season with a seven-run sixth inning Wednesday night, defeating the Clinton Lumberkings 13-6 at the Corn Crib. Standout performances from infielder Dylan Coty and starting pitcher Graham Kasey helped fuel the successful evening. 

Coty left his mark on both sides of the ball. Coty finished 3-for-4 with a double, two RBI’s, two runs scored, a walk, and three stolen bases. Coach Billy DuBois emphasized the importance of his speed, believing he is one of the fastest players in the Prospect League this season. Due to his ability to perform at the plate, his speedy base running and aggression often leads to more bases than expected. Speed is crucial in the game of baseball and often gets overlooked. Coty was later deemed the player of the game for the ’Belters first victory. 

Kasey controlled the rhythm from the first pitch and kept Clinton from rallying up the scoreboard. Kasey only allowed one earned run on six hits, striking out eight and walking one in a five inning stretch. The right-handed pitcher’s consistency at the mound led to a feeling of control for the ’Belters. Although the bullpen allowed for four runs over the final innings, the pitching staff combined for 16 strikeouts. 

Utility player Tyler Thompson’s RBI single in the first inning gave Normal an early lead. Clinton was fast to strike back in the second to tie the game. Infielder Ben Voegele’s home run in the third put the ’Belters back ahead. Voegele recorded the first home run of the season for Normal and quickly accelerated the offense. The ’Belters are looking to keep the pace, as last season, they were 14th in the league in home runs with 23. 

The CornBelters blew the game open in the sixth inning, scoring seven runs as a result of multiple RBI’s and walks. Normal capitalized on Clinton walks and errors and did not look back. Five players added to the lead with three RBI-doubles, one RBI-single, and two RBI-walks. 

The balanced offensive attack and composed pitching at the mound led to a large victory for the CornBelters home opener. Normal looks to continue to build off the win as the team faces Clinton once more Thursday night.