Aja Paculba was cold coming off the bench, but Paculba warmed up quickly as Paculba stroked a key pinch-hit single in the five to lead the Akron Racers (1-0) to a 5-3 win over the Brakettes (0-1) on Tuesday at Firestone Stadium.

With the score tied at two, Paculba came to the plate and singled.

The teams traded runs for most of the contest, leading to five lead changes in the game.

The Akron Racers held off the Brakettes, as the Brakettes were unable to overcome a three-run fifth inning deficit.

The Brakettes scored one run in the seventh on an RBI single by Ashley Waters. Despite their efforts, the Brakettes couldn't finish the comeback.

Erin Arevalo got the win, running his season record to 1-0. He allowed three runs over four innings. Arevalo struck out one, walked two and gave up six hits.

Brandice Balschmiter was the game's losing pitcher. He lasted just six innings, walked two, struck out five, and allowed five runs.