Lightning Make History in a 12-5 Win Over Orlando

Leesburg, Fla. – The Leesburg Lightning continued their strong start to the 2026 Florida Collegiate Summer League season Monday night, using a patient offensive approach and timely hitting to roll past the Orlando Snappers, 12-5, at Pat Thomas Stadium.

Leesburg's offense was relentless throughout the evening, drawing 12 walks, stealing 12 bases and scoring 12 runs on nine hits. The Lightning put pressure on Orlando from the opening inning and never looked back.

Charlie Keller provided the biggest swing of the night, launching a two-run home run as part of a four-run second inning that helped Leesburg build an early advantage. Keller's home run was also the 300th in franchise history for the Lightning.

Dylan Green continued his hot start to the season, reaching base five times while going 2-for-2 with a double, an RBI, three runs scored and three walks.

KT Thompson reached base three times, scoring twice and driving in a run, while Hudson Reed collected two hits, including a double, and added an RBI. Marcello Cortale contributed an RBI, and Gabe Campos delivered a clutch two-out double that drove in three runs during a four-run seventh inning that put the game out of reach.

The Lightning's aggressive baserunning was a major factor throughout the contest. Green, Thompson, Keller, Reed, Cortale, Jack Waddingham, Campos and Ledger Pleasant all recorded stolen bases as Leesburg swiped 12 bags on the night.

On the mound, Ben Clenney made the start and worked four innings, allowing four runs while striking out four. After Orlando trimmed the deficit to two runs early, Andre Bilbao Jr. stabilized the game out of the bullpen. The right-hander tossed three innings, allowing just one run while earning the victory.

Ethon Tesmer shut the door over the final two innings, striking out four batters and not allowing a run to secure the win.

Orlando finished with 10 hits, led by Elvin Figueroa's three-hit, RBI performance and a two-run homer from Logan Chalk. However, the Snappers struggled to contain the Lightning offense, issuing 12 walks. Orlando pitchers struck out 15 Leesburg hitters but repeatedly allowed the Lightning to manufacture runs.

With the victory, the Lightning improved to 3-1 on the season and will face the DeLand Suns at Pat Thomas Stadium on Tuesday. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m.

Adam Rothschild (Susquehanna University)