Cade Belyeu’s Emotional Home Run: A Tribute to His Mother’s Legacy

The Auburn Tigers outfielder, Cade Belyeu, began the 2025 season with a heavy heart, carrying the weight of immense emotional pressure. Just hours before the team faced the Holy Cross Crusaders, Belyeu learned of his mother Staci’s passing after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Despite the overwhelming grief, Belyeu chose to take the field, fulfilling his mother’s wishes for him to play. In a moment that transcended sports, Belyeu hit a solo home run in the sixth inning, marking both his and the Tigers’ first home run of the season. This poignant gesture was not just a victory for the team but a heartfelt tribute to his mother’s enduring spirit and love for the game.

A Grieving Athlete’s Decision to Play

Auburn head coach Butch Thompson revealed that the team had considered giving Belyeu the night off to grieve, but the young outfielder was resolute in his decision to play. "He said Staci wanted him to play," Thompson shared with the Montgomery Advertiser. This moment of raw emotion and determination left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance. The crowd, sensing the gravity of the situation, rallied around Belyeu, creating an atmosphere of support and solidarity. For Thompson and the entire Tigers squad, Belyeu’s courage was nothing short of inspiring.

A Weekend of Resilience and Triumph

Despite the emotional toll, Belyeu put on a stellar performance over the weekend series against Holy Cross. He went 6-for-12 at the plate, driving in two runs, including the solo home run that became a defining moment of the season opener. Belyeu also showcased his speed with five stolen bases, contributing significantly to the Tigers’ success. Auburn clinched the series, winning two out of three games, with a 4-1 victory in the first matchup. Belyeu’s resilience and determination were evident in every play, a testament to his strength and the unwavering support of his team.

The Power of Community and Support

The Auburn community came together to support Belyeu during one of the darkest moments of his life. The crowd’s reaction to his home run was a powerful display of empathy and solidarity. Fans and teammates alike were moved by his courage, creating a poignant reminder of the human side of sports. For Belyeu, the love and support of the Auburn family provided the strength he needed to keep moving forward, both on and off the field.

Looking Ahead: A Season of Promise

Belyeu’s performance against Holy Cross was just the beginning of what promises to be a standout season. At 6-foot-3, the sophomore outfielder is a formidable presence on the field, building on his impressive debut last season when he earned a spot on the SEC All-Freshman team. As the Tigers prepare for their next game against Troy on Tuesday, Belyeu’s determination and talent continue to be a source of inspiration for his teammates and fans.

A Legacy of Strength and Love

The 2025 season will undoubtedly be a challenging journey for Cade Belyeu, but his courage and resilience in the face of tragedy have already left an indelible mark on Auburn’s baseball program. As the Tigers aim to improve on last season’s 27-26 record and 8-22 SEC performance, Belyeu’s story serves as a reminder of the power of love, family, and perseverance. For Cade, every swing of the bat and every sprint around the bases is a tribute to his mother’s memory, ensuring her legacy lives on through the game they both loved.