Reba Tutt Joins The Akron Racers
6/10/2011 12:00:00 AM | Softball
June 10, 2011
AKRON, Ohio—Following a record-breaking collegiate career, Pitt standout Reba Tutt became just the second Panther to sign with a National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) team when she inked a deal with the Akron Racers this past week.
After spending several days at a Racers tryout, Tutt was asked to stay on permanently as a utility player. The Akron Racers opened their 10th season Thursday night with the first of four games against the NPF Diamonds at Firestone Stadium.
“To her credit, Reba can run, hit and play several positions,” President/GM of the Akron Racers Joey Arrietta said. “She impressed us because of how many things she can do. Her personality and demeanor fits well with our team. That combined with her athletic ability, Reba is a positive addition to our team.”
This season, Tutt was one of several Panthers that ranked alongside the nation’s elite. She was seventh in triples, 13th in triples per game, 34th in walks, 41st in doubles per game and 50th in runs per contest during the regular season.
Tutt was also named an All-Big East second team selection for the first time in her career. She was a four-year starter in the outfield and emerged as one of the most accomplished hitters in program history. During her senior year, Tutt led the team with 47 runs scored, 15 doubles, six triples, 35 walks and a .455 on-base percentage. She set single-season records for runs scored and walks, and career records for runs scored (147) and walks (101). Tutt also ranks among the school’s career leaders in hits (176–fifth), home runs (22–second), triples (14–second) and stolen bases (69–second).
As a senior captain, Tutt made a lasting impression in the first-ever game at Vartabedian Field at the Petersen Sports Complex, when she smacked a walk-off double to clinch a 2-1 victory over Penn State. Later, Tutt blasted a walk-off homer to secure a victory in her final home game as a Panther over Villanova.
The NPF was created to give elite female fastpitch players an opportunity to pursue a professional career in their chosen sport. In operation since 1997 under the names of Women’s Pro Fastpitch (WPF) and Women’s Pro Softball League (WPSL), the league is made up of four teams: NPF Diamonds, Akron Racers, USSSA Pride and Chicago Bandits. 

For more information or to follow Tutt, visit akronracers.org.