Diller stays close to home with Thunder

By Meghan Montemurro

Bloomington, Ill., native Shanna Diller won’t have to move very far to continue her softball career. Diller officially signed with the Rockford Thunder of the National Pro Fastpitch on Wednesday. The former Illini started at third base for four years, leaving her mark in numerous offensive categories.

The first-team All-Big Ten and Academic All-District selection is second in Illinois history in home runs with 37, 163 runs scored, 158 RBIs and 364 total bases. Diller is also fourth all-time with a batting average of .314 and .537 slugging percentage.

“Shanna is a player we’ve had our eye on since the fall college season,” Rockford General Manager Aaron Moore said in a press release. “She provides us with another solid bat and is versatile in that she can play both of the corner infield positions. We look for her to contribute to the team right away this season.”

Diller joins former Illinois shortstop Angelena Mexicano and first baseman Jenna Hall in the professional softball league. The Thunder begin the season at home at SportsCore One in Rockford on Thursday at 6:35 p.m. CT.