Chicago Bandits bring back catcher Butler
The Chicago Bandits of the National Pro Fastpitch league have re-signed catcher Kristen Butler for the 2013 season, team officials announced this week.
“We are happy to have Kristen back with us,” Bandits general manager Aaron M. Moore said. “She came in (last season) after missing a couple of seasons and was able to produce like she had before.
“Kristen provides some much-needed pop from the right side of the plate for us and she also brings a nice veteran presence. We’re looking for her to at least duplicate what she did in 2012. If she does that, our lineup will continue to get stronger.”
Before joining the Bandits last season, Butler spent four seasons as a member of the Akron Racers (2006-2009). She enjoyed her best professional season in 2008, hitting 10 home runs while finishing second in the league with 24 RBIs and fourth with a .317 batting average and earning a spot on the All-NPF Team.
“I am so excited,” said Butler. “I love this team, coaches, and administration. The Chicago Bandit fans accepted me so warmly last year and I can’t wait to reconnect with them again this summer. “
Butler led the Bandits last season in RBIs with 31 and finished second on the team in home runs with seven. She is currently serving as an assistant coach Charleston Southern University softball team in North Charleston, S.C.
Butler’s signing follows the re-signing of Danielle Zymkowitz, a former Illini star who will return for her third season with the Bandits.
“Danielle is an extremely versatile player that can play many positions,” Moore said. “She also provides some speed for us and she is one of the most-liked players by our fans.”
“I am eager to do my part in order to win another ring for the Bandit Nation and the city of Rosemont,” Zymkowitz said.
While she struggled last season, Zymkowitz was a 2011 All-NPF Team selection in her rookie season with a .298 batting average and an on-base percentage of .330.
Zymkowitz is currently serving as an assistant coach for the Fairleigh Dickinson University softball team in Madison, N.J.
For more about the Chicago Bandits or to get season-ticket information, visitchicagobandits.com or call (877) 722-6348.