Bradenton, Florida -- UMBC Softball alum
Jerzie Nutile has signed a professional contract with the Florida Heat of the Professional Softball League (PSL).
"I was so blessed to have been given the opportunity to be a part of the UMBC Softball family," said Nutile. "To my fellow teammates, y'all are my family forever and ever. Thank you for supporting me. To my coaches, you all played huge roles in my love of the game and accomplishments."
An America East All-Conference First Team selection in 2025, Nutile saw success at the plate, in the field and in the circle. Last season she tied for the team lead with 11 homers and also picked up a pair of wins in the circle. In the outfield she recorded multiple assists, and was a starter on the 2023 America East Championship team.
"We are so proud of Jerzie for signing to play pro ball," said head coach
Angie Nicholson. "While I never got to coach her, this just goes to show how well thought of UMBC Softball is and how the program can produce professionals. We wish her the best and will be cheering her on!"
On Wednesday, the Professional Softball League announced it will combine seven previously independent softball clubs from across the country into a women's professional softball league that will open play in June 2026, shortly after the 2026 Women's College World Series.
The seven inaugural teams include the Atlanta Smoke (Atlanta), Chattanooga Chill (Chattanooga, Tennessee), Florida Breeze (Tampa Bay, Florida), Florida Heat (Viera, Florida), Florida Vibe (Bradenton, Florida), KC Diamonds (Kansas City) and New York Rise (New York). Each team will carry a roster of 20 players.
The league's inaugural season will be broadcast exclusively on the All Women's Sports Network (AWSN), which will "feature PSL on major global platforms including Amazon Prime, Pluto TV, and DirecTV," AWSN CEO George Chung said in a press release. The league's 2026 schedule will be announced at a later date.
"This is a monumental step not only for our organization, but for the growth of women's softball across the world," Florida Heat owner Ricky Bumgardner Jr. added. "Our mission is to elevate athletes, build opportunities, and inspire the next generation — and the PSL gives us the perfect platform to do that. We can't wait to compete, represent our community, and bring the Heat to the PSL."
