Folden homerun sets early tone in Bandits 5-2 win
July 7, 2009 - National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)
Rockford Thunder News Release
ROSCOE, Ill. - The Chicago Bandits wasted little time showing off their power in Tuesday's 5-2 win over the Thunder.
With one out in the first inning and a runner on first base, 2008 NPF Rookie of the Year Rachel Folden, stepped up to the plate and blasted an Allison Kime pitch deep to right field for an early 2-0 lead for the Bandits (16-4).
The Thunder (9-7) would get one back in its half of the first inning. Back-to-back singles by Shanel Scott and Jenna Rhodes and an error on Shanna Diller's ground ball loaded the bases for Amanda Williams. Williams took the count full and earned the free pass to bring in Rockford's first run of the game.
Chicago would score the eventual game-winning run in the third inning. With two outs in the frame Samantha Findlay laced a single to left and Stacy May walked bringing to the plate Nicole Trimboli. Trimboli hit a ball deep in the hole allowing the first run to come in. May also came in to score on the play after Trimboli was caught in a run down.
The Thunder tried to mount a comeback off of Bandits pitcher Kristina Thorson, but they managed just one more run over the next six innings.
Kime went five innings for the Thunder and surrendered all five Bandits runs on eight hits. She struck out three and walked two, both of which scored, to see her record fall to 2-3 on the season. Cassidy Scoggins pitched two perfect innings for the Thunder to close out the game.
For the Bandits, Thorson went the distance allowing seven hits and striking out five. Thorson is now 4-3 on the season for the first-place Bandits.
The Thunder and Bandits will return to Thunder Park on Thursday night for game two of the five-game series. Samantha Sheeley is expected to start in the circle for the Thunder and she will most likely face Northwestern graduate Eileen Canney. Game time for the final four games of the series is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.
Tomorrow night is Roscoe Appreciation Night at the ballpark and all Roscoe residents can receive buy one, get one free tickets by showing proof of residency.
For more information on the Thunder or to purchase tickets contact the Thunder at (815) 965-7000. Additional information can also be obtained on the Thunder website at www.thunderprofastpitch.com.
GAME NOTES - Thunder players Jenae Leles, Cat Osterman and Ashley Holcombe missed the game today due to their commitment with Team USA...The three players will miss the final 10 home games of the regular season...Chelsie Mesa got the start in her professional debut at second base and finished the game 1-for-3 from the plate.
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National Pro Fastpitch Stories from July 7, 2009
- Force Take Exhibition Win over Racers - Philadelphia Force
- Folden homerun sets early tone in Bandits 5-2 win - Rockford Thunder
- Bandits announce All-American Girl Night -- July 18 - Chicago Bandits
- Force Bats a Grand Slam of Promotions - Philadelphia Force
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