The Normal CornBelters (26-22)'s four first-inning runs built an early lead that helped bring home a 5-2 win over the Joliet Slammers (20-28) on Thursday at The Corn Crib.

It was a good day at the plate for the Normal CornBelters' Keoni Manago. Manago went 3-4 and scored two runs. He singled in the first and second innings and doubled in the fifth inning.

Michael Schweiss picked up the win for the Normal CornBelters. Schweiss pitched 6 2/3 innings and allowed one earned run, five hits and three walks while striking out five.

Nick Akins racked up two RBIs on one hit for the Joliet Slammers. He homered in the fourth inning.

Evan Anundsen couldn't get it done on the hill for the Joliet Slammers, taking a loss. He lasted just four innings, walked two, struck out two, and allowed five runs.