Aug. 3, 2007
AKRON, Ohio -
Pitching for the first time since July 20, former Illinois State softball pitcher Stacy Birk earned a no-decision in Philadelphia's 16-3 loss to Akron in National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) league action Friday night at Firestone Stadium in Akron, Ohio.
After breezing through the Akron lineup in the first inning, Birk went into the bottom of the second with Philadelphia leading, 1-0. The advantage did not last long for the Force, however, as Birk gave up a leadoff home run to the Racers' designated hitter, Kristen Butler. Caitlin Benyi followed with a walk and then moved up to second base off a Jenn Poore single down the left field line. After Benyi advanced to third base and Poore stole second, Arkon second baseman Veronica Wootson ended Birk's night in the circle, driving a single into center field, scoring both Benyi and Poore to give the Racers a 3-1 lead.
Philadelphia scored two runs in the top of the third inning to help bail Birk out of the potential loss. The Force were unable to upend the Racers, however, as Akron tallied three runs in the bottom of the third inning before plating 10 more in the final three frames to take the victory.
Pitching just one and two-thirds innings, Birk gave up three earned runs, while surrendering two walks and striking out one Akron batter. Her professional pitching record stands at 2-6 in her rookie campaign with Philadelphia.
The Force, currently in a tight battle for the NPF league playoffs, stayed in last place in the six-team league, after their record dropped to one game below .500 (17-18). The Racers improved to 19-12 on the season and maintained their third-place position in the team standings.
Philadelphia returns to action at 11:05 a.m. CDT Saturday with the conclusion of its crucial four-game series with Akron at Firestone Stadium in Akron, Ohio.
