THUNDER BAY – May 28, 2025 – Now THAT’S how you open a season at home! The Thunder Bay Border Cats gave their fans everything they could ask for—and then some—on Opening Night at Port Arthur Stadium, taking down the Rochester Honkers 14-9 in a wild and wonderful night of baseball in the Northwoods League.
Early Offense, Electric Crowd
With 1,369 fans in the stands and energy in the air, the Border Cats wasted no time lighting up the scoreboard. They jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, and by the time the fifth inning wrapped, Thunder Bay had built a commanding 7-0 advantage.
The Cats scored consistently right through the game, building up a lead that they would not surrender.
But this game was far from routine. It had everything: walks, wild pitches, and aggressive baserunning that turned heads—including a flurry of stolen bases that helped fuel the Cats’ offensive explosion.
The Honkers however showed a lot of spirit, never giving up. In fact a late surge by the Honkers brought on when Cats pitcher Luke Zmolik took to the mount. Despite getting ahead of the batters in several attempts, he walked five batters, and hit two with wild pitches. Five runs crossed the plate bringing a bit of frustration for the fans in the stands.
This brought up Jackson Hohensee in the bull pen to warm up and come in in relief to close out the game.
It was a victory that was needed by the Cats after losing big in the previous road game. It showed great maturity to rebound. It also gave the hometown fans a reason to cheer and early in the season that is important.
Player Highlights – Cats Claw Their Way to Victory
Trae Cassidy (Ohio University) – The designated hitter was locked in, going a perfect 5-for-5 at the plate, crossing the plate five times and adding 2 RBI for good measure. Talk about setting the tone.
Corey Morro (University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma) – The leadoff hitter went 2-for-3 with a clutch 3 RBI, sparking momentum from the top of the order.
Makaio Cisneros (Pensacola State College) – In his Border Cats debut, the right-hander was lights out, tossing four scoreless innings and racking up seven strikeouts before handing things off to the bullpen.
John McDonald (Creighton University) – The reliever held it down and was credited with the win, keeping the Honkers at bay as they tried to claw back late.
With the win, the Border Cats now sit at 2-1 on the young season and are showing signs that this team could be something special under the lights at Port Arthur Stadium.
Up Next – More Baseball, More Fun
The Border Cats and Honkers continue their four-game series on Thursday, May 29, with first pitch set for 6:35 p.m. ET. And yes, it’s “Thirsty Thursday” at the ballpark, featuring $7 RBI Lager tall cans from Sleeping Giant Brewing Company.
Friday night’s game promises even more excitement with post-game fireworks, and first pitch Friday is at 7:35 p.m. Bring the family, bring your glove, and bring your voice—because this team is giving Thunder Bay fans a reason to cheer again.
