Jen Pawol is set to make history as the first female umpire in Major League Baseball, officiating games this weekend between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves. At 48, Pawol will work base positions on Saturday and serve as home plate umpire on Sunday. She previously officiated spring training games and is recognized for enhancing gender inclusivity in sports. Pawol's background includes competitive athletics, playing for Hofstra University, and participating in the USA Baseball women's national team. Her path to MLB included coaching NCAA softball and completing umpiring training. MLB's decision aligns with recent trends in breaking gender barriers in refereeing across various sports.
Jen Pawol is set to become the first woman to umpire in Major League Baseball, officiating games between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves this weekend. She will work the bases in Saturday's doubleheader and the plate on Sunday. Pawol, 48, has previously officiated spring training games and represents significant progress in gender inclusion within professional sports. Major League Baseball's announcement follows similar milestones in other sports, highlighting a broader trend toward inclusivity in officiating roles.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised MLB for its inclusivity, stating, "Baseball's done a great job of being completely inclusive," indicating support for Pawol breaking barriers as a female umpire.
Pawol’s journey includes being an all-state athlete in multiple sports in New Jersey, playing softball at Hofstra University, and serving on the USA Baseball women's national team. Her transition to umpiring began after feeling unsatisfied with competitive play.
Prior to her Major League baseball debut, Pawol officiated NCAA softball, attended umpire camps, and quickly advanced through the ranks, including a role in the Gulf Coast League.
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