Jen Pawol Makes Historic MLB Umpiring Debut

On August 9, 2025, Jen Pawol became the first woman to umpire a Major League Baseball regular-season game, working first base for the Atlanta Braves vs. Miami Marlins in Atlanta, then moving to third base and making her home plate debut the next day. Pawol, a former art teacher and accomplished softball player who umpired over 1,200 Minor League games, described the moment as a dream come true. Her historic debut was celebrated with standing ovations and support from players, fans, and MLB officials, including Commissioner Rob Manfred, though some criticized MLB for limited national broadcast coverage. Pawol donated her debut umpire cap to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, marking the milestone. Her performance, including a closely watched first strike call behind the plate, drew significant attention due to advanced broadcast technology. The achievement was hailed as a landmark for women in baseball and a source of inspiration for greater diversity.