Top catcher Folden returns to Bandits for 2011 season

Catcher Rachel Folden, the Player of the Year last season in National Pro Fastpitch, is returning to play her fourth season with the Chicago Bandits, general manager Aaron Moore announced Wednesday.

“It’s exciting to continue my career in Chicago,” said Folden. “I would like to play in Chicago as long as I can and I’m glad to sign on for another year.”

A member of the Bandits since 2008, Folden has been named to the All-NPF team for three seasons in a row. In 2008, she was named National Pro Fastpitch Rookie of the Year.

In 2010 Folden tied with teammate Stacy May as co-winner of the Wilson Home Run Trophy and was named Worth Offensive Player of the Year in the NPF. She finished the 2010 season with a .316 batting average, 12 home runs and 32 RBIs.

“I hope we can come together as team and peak at the right time this year,” said Folden. “We had a hot start last season and trailed off in the end. We need to get hot right before the playoffs and give the USSSA Pride a run for their money this year.”

Season tickets for the 2011 season, which features the Bandits in a new stadium in Rosemont, are available by calling 877-7BANDIT (877-722-6348). For more information about the Bandits, visit www.chicagobandits.com.