Jen Pawol is about to make history as Major League Baseball’s first female umpire. The 48-year-old New Jersey native will officiate the upcoming games between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves this weekend, marking a historic milestone in the sport’s history.
Pawol to Umpire Doubleheader and Call Balls and Strikes
On Saturday, August 9, Pawol will be at the bases during the doubleheader at Truist Park in Atlanta. The following day, on Sunday, August 10, she will call balls and strikes behind the plate, becoming the first woman to officiate in such a high-profile MLB game.
Her debut in MLB is a significant moment for both the sport and gender equality in professional athletics. In 2024, Pawol made history by becoming the first woman to umpire spring training games since Ria Cortesio did so in 2007.
A Remarkable Career Path
Pawol’s journey to becoming MLB’s first female umpire has been one of determination and hard work. Her athletic career began in high school, where she was an all-state softball and soccer player for three seasons at West Milford High School in New Jersey.
She then went on to play softball at Hofstra University, earning three all-conference selections.
In 2001, Pawol represented the USA Baseball women’s national baseball team, showcasing her talent on the field. After college, she pursued a master’s degree and worked towards teacher certification, while still playing ball on the side.
From Softball to Umpiring
Pawol began umpiring NCAA softball from 2010 to 2016, before attending an MLB umpire tryout camp in 2015. Her efforts led her to the Umpire Training Academy at Vero Beach, Florida, where she received an offer to join the Gulf Coast League in 2016.
In 2024, Pawol made her MLB debut by umpiring spring training games, becoming the first woman to do so since Cortesio. Her dedication and passion for the job are evident in her words: “For me, personally, I just love doing the job. I’m passionate about it, and it’s just part of who I am,” she said in 2016.
A Proud Moment for MLB and Future Generations
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed his pride in Pawol’s achievement, stating, “This historic accomplishment in baseball is a reflection of Jen’s hard work, dedication and love of the game.
We are proud of the strong example she has set, particularly for all the women and young girls who aspire to roles on the field.”
Looking Ahead
As Pawol continues her career in MLB, she maintains a focus on improving her craft. “Anybody in baseball will tell you that you’ve just got to keep it simple, keep working hard, put your all into it and get ready for the next day,” Pawol said in 2024. “That’s all I think about every day — get better before tomorrow.”
Her achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a monumental step toward equality in the world of professional sports, opening the door for more women to follow in her footsteps.
