Auburn Tigers outfielder Cade Belyeu began the 2025 season with a profound sense of loss and immense emotional weight as the team faced off against the Holy Cross Crusaders. In the sixth inning, Belyeu hit a solo home run, marking both his and the Tigers’ first home run of the season. However, this game meant more to him than just an early-season win.
Tragically, Belyeu’s mother, Staci, had passed away just hours before the game after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Auburn head coach Butch Thompson shared that the team was uncertain about how to proceed if Belyeu chose to take the night off to grieve. “He said Staci wanted him to play,” Thompson recounted. “It was one of the most inspiring moments we’ve ever witnessed. Our crowd was incredible; they understood what he was going through. Cade Belyeu truly inspired us all.”
Auburn secured a 4-1 victory in the game and went on to win two out of three in the series against Holy Cross. Over the weekend, Belyeu excelled at the plate, going 6-for-12, hitting one home run, driving in two runs, and stealing five bases.
The Tigers will return to the field on Tuesday to face Troy. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, Belyeu was recognized as a member of the SEC All-Freshman team last season. Auburn finished the previous season with a record of 27-26, including an 8-22 mark against SEC opponents, and did not qualify for the postseason.