Jennifer Gilbert 2015 statistics
Batting Average - .353
Slugging Percentage - .647
Home Runs - 1
Triples - 1
Runs Batted In - 3
Jennifer Gilbert is proving she belongs with the best with her play through five games this season.
The former Ball State outfielder is in her second season with the Akron Racers of the National Pro Fastpitch League after being selected 10th overall in 2014. Through five games this season, Gilbert ranks near the top of many hitting categories.
"I feel very comfortable [this season] because I know what to expect," Gilbert said. "Last year I learned a lot in my international experience with Team Canada and even then I was constantly learning new things from the game and my team."
Gilbert had to make a decision prior to the season between Team Canada and the Racers.
She chose to dedicate herself to the Racers — and to playing against the best players the world has to offer.
So far, choosing the latter has paid off.
Gilbert is tied for fifth in the league this season with a .353 batting average, and also ranks in the top five in slugging percentage (.647), home runs (1) and triples (1) among players with at least 10 at-bats. She is also tied for seventh in runs batted in with three, according to profastpitch.com.
Having a season under her belt and hard work through the offseason helped her grow enormously, she said.
"These last few games I've just worked on staying within myself," Gilbert said. "I'm not trying to do too much because that will kill you in this league. I also know that I'm playing against the best in the world, and in this game I won't get a hit or get on base every time like in college."
A former All-American for Ball State, the skills are there for Gilbert. She's one of the most decorated players in Mid-American Conference softball history.
The mental aspect is what Gilbert sees as a major part of the game.
Staying positive is key in helping her play softball. In a blog Gilbert wrote for WSN, she said building a solid mental foundation is just as important as working on the mechanics, like going to the batting cages.
She also credits her work as a Ball State assistant coach for helping develop a strong mindset.
No athlete can play the sport they love forever. For now, Gilbert is steadily improving and enjoying her time at the highest level.
"It feels great," Gilbert said, "just taking it one game at a time."
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