MSU Softball Pitcher Signs with National Pro Fastpitch League

AKRON, Ohio (WCBI/MSU Athletics) — After wrapping up her Mississippi State career by leading the Bulldogs to their third-straight NCAA Tournament appearance, Alison Owen will continue her softball career in the National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) league as a member of the Akron Racers, the organization announced Thursday.

(HailState.com)

Owen becomes the first Mississippi State player to go to the NPF since Courtney Bures was drafted 16th overall by the Washington Glory in 2008.

The NPF consists of four teams, the USSSA Pride, Chicago Bandits, Akron Racers and Pennsylvania Rebellion. The Racers’ 2014 season kicks off May 29 against the Bandits. Owen will be joined on the squad by other former Southeastern Conference members Kelley Montalvo (Alabama), Charlotte Morgan (Alabama), Taylor Schlopy (Georgia) and Rachele Fico (LSU).

Owen ended her senior campaign with an 18-12 record, 223 strikeouts, three shutouts and a 2.98 earned-run average. Prior to the Super Regional round of the NCAA Tournament, the Newnan, Ga., product ranks 18th among all Division I pitchers in strikeouts per seven innings (8.9), stands 34th in total whiffs and checks in 38th in fewest walks allowed per seven innings (1.35).

“I’m excited to add Alison to our pitching staff,” Racers’ General Manager Joey Arrietta said. “Alison will provide us with a battle-tested pitcher having dealt with the explosive lineups in the SEC.”

Owen departs from Mississippi State ranking within the top three in nearly every career pitching category despite just two years for the Bulldogs after transferring from the University of Georgia. Owen established the MSU records for most strikeouts per game (8.83), total strikeouts (473) and strikeouts looking (102). She also checks in fourth in complete games (34), sixth in saves (six) and sixth in shutouts (eight).

The Alison Owen File
National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-Region Second Team – 2013
College Sports Madness National Player of the Week – March 5, 2013
Three-time Southeastern Conference Pitcher of the Week – Feb. 25, 2013; March 4, 2013; April 14, 2014
SEC Academic Honor Roll – 2013
Blues City Classic First-Team All-Tournament Team – 2013
MSU Bulldog Battle MVP – 2013