RACERS TAKE THREE OF FOUR FROM RIPTIDE
 

Akron, Ohio - An exceptional pitching effort and one swing of the bat propelled the Akron Racers to a 1-0 victory over the New England Riptide in Saturday's series finale at Firestone Stadium. 

 

The Racers (26-17) Brandee McArthur looked like a completely different pitcher from two nights ago when she struggled in the circle against the very same Riptide team.  McArthur (7-8) was magnificent all evening as she tossed a complete game shutout.  She gave-up only two hits and one walk, and only once allowed two runners on in the same inning.  McArthur, who holds the Racers' career strikeout record, added three more and now has 89 on the season.

 

With how well McArthur was pitching only the most minimal of run support was necessary, and that was exactly what she got.

 

Second baseman Caitlyn Benyi delivered a solo homerun in the bottom of the first.  It was her fourth longball of the year, and was the only run either team would plate all night.

 

New England (23-14) starter Jocelyn Forest (14-4) was nearly as good as McArthur.  She also threw a complete game, allowing just four hits and the one run.  Forest leads the National Pro Fastpitch in wins, but the Racers were able to tag the Riptide ace with two losses in this four-game series.

 

These three wins were crucial for Akron as they currently hold the fourth place in the NPF standings, but they look to improve on that position.  Both the Racers and the Riptide have already secured playoff berths.

 

The Racers close-out the regular season at home against the Chicago Bandits next week.  The four-game series runs Thursday through Sunday with the first three games being played at 7:05, followed by a 1:05 game Sunday afternoon to wrap-up the season.  Chicago will bring its NPF best 27-9 record into Firestone Stadium.  Also, it is a re-match of last season's NPF Championship Game.

 

Great seats still remain for the final homestand and fans can call 330-376-8188 for ticket information.