NPF Akron Racers

Jackie Pasquerella the 19th Akron Racer Impact Honoree

May 11, 2016 - National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)
Akron Racers News Release


Jackie Pasquerella of the Akron Racers
Jackie Pasquerella of the Akron Racers
(Akron Racers)

AKRON, OH - The 19th Akron Racers IMPACT honoree is hot corner specialist, Jackie Pasquerella. The Racers are winding down to the final 11 honorees but make a stop at number 19 to unveil truly one of the most incredible players, not just in Akron, but in the league.

"Where do I begin, offensively and, without a doubt, defensively, Jackie was one of the very best-of-the-best at third base," remarked GM Joey Arrietta. "The NPF has had some unbelievable athletes at this position which, I believe, is the toughest spot to play on the diamond. Jackie Pasquerella literally dared hitters to try and beat her, and Jackie won that battle consistently for seven seasons."

Pasquerella began playing in the NPF once the pro game returned to the diamond in 2004 as a member of the New York/New Jersey Juggernaut and then with the New England Riptide. Pasquerella found her way to the Racers as a wise, seasoned veteran in 2009. Pasquerella would go on to play two seasons in Akron, earning back-to-back All-NPF team selections.

Defensively, Pasquerella arrived in Akron carrying the 2007 NPF Defensive Player of the Year award and showed for two seasons that she hadn't lost much, if anything at all, playing the hot corner.

Offensively, Pasquerella showed a rare ability to attack a defense in a variety of ways depending on what the situation. Pasquerella was adept at swinging away for a hit, slapping to put the ball in play, bunting to move runners in scoring position or bunting for a hit.

In 2009, Pasquerella finished second on the Racers with a .342 average and led the team with 32 runs scored and 41 hits, while helping to guide the Racers to a second place finish in the NPF with a 26-14 record.

Pasquerella followed her first year with the Racers with another strong campaign in 2010. The Villanova grad finished the 2010 campaign with a .271 batting average, 16 runs scored, 10 RBI, five doubles and five stolen bases.

Pasquerella checks in at number 11 in Akron franchise history with a .308 average and 48 runs scored. While in a Racers uniform, Pasquerella posted 70 hits, eight doubles, seven stolen bases and 26 RBI.

Pasquerlla and the other 29 IMPACT honorees will be recognized this summer, culminating in a weekend-long celebration July 15-17 when the Racers welcome the Dallas Charge to Firestone Stadium for a three-game series. The Racers will welcome back many of their former players to celebrate the history of the franchise, culminating in the pre-game presentation of the 30 IMPACT honorees on July 16th. Each honoree will receive a special commemorative jersey bearing their name and number.




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Jackie Pasquerella of the Akron Racers
Jackie Pasquerella of the Akron Racers
   



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