Rockford Takes Game One from Bandits in 12 Innings
May 29, 2007 - National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) - Rockford Thunder News Release
ROCKFORD, Ill. - Cat. Jennie. That's pretty much all that needs to be said after watching tonight's Opening Day match-up between the Rockford Thunder and Chicago Bandits.
The two pitchers went toe-to-toe for 12 innings, nearly matching strikeout for strikeout, before the Thunder scored in the bottom of the 12th to defeat the visiting Bandits 1-0 in front of 2,635.
Jennie Finch started and went all 11 2/3 innings for the Bandits, surrendering the lone run and striking out 17 Thunder hitters.
Cat Osterman went the distance for Rockford, as she struck out 24 hitters to go to 1-0 on the season. Osterman faced many challenges, especially in the extra innings, twice getting out of second and third situations with nobody out. She allowed just two hits on the night.
Lindsay Gardner, one of just four players from last year's team to join the Thunder in Rockford, was the other hero on a great Tuesday night. With two outs in the inning Gardner ripped a 2-2 pitch down the line driving in rookie Audrey Rendon. Gardner finished the game 1-for-4 on the night. Offensively, the Thunder was led by former league MVP Kristen Zaleski, who finished the night 2-for-5 with two singles and two runs scored.
The same two teams will square off again tomorrow night for game two of the series. Amanda Freed is scheduled to pitch for the Thunder, while Jessica Sallinger is expected to toe the rubber for the Bandits.
Wednesday night's game means ½ price tickets for all general admission tickets. This offer is valid for day of game purchases only.
For more information on the Thunder or to purchase season or individual tickets for the 2007 season, contact Aaron M. Moore at (815) 965-7000 or amoore@thunderprofastpitch.com. For additional information on the team, visit them on the web at www.thunderprofastpitch.com.
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National Pro Fastpitch Stories from May 29, 2007
- Rockford Takes Game One from Bandits in 12 Innings - Rockford Thunder
- New England Riptide Seek to Repeat in 2007 - New England Riptide
- Thunder Looks to Start Season on Right Note - Rockford Thunder
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