BREAKING: Kelsie Whitmore has been selected as the first overall pick in the inaugural Women’s Pro Baseball League (WPBL) draft, marking a historic moment for women’s baseball. The draft took place on Thursday night in San Francisco, just days before the league’s much-anticipated launch on August 1, 2024.
Whitmore, a pitcher and outfielder from San Diego, expressed her excitement about returning to the Bay Area, where she began her pro career with the Sonoma Stompers in 2016. “You ask a 6-year-old version of me about this opportunity happening right now, she would, one, probably not believe you, but, two, just be so, so, so, so excited for it,” she said, reflecting on her journey.
Meanwhile, Mo’ne Davis, the 24-year-old baseball prodigy from Philadelphia, was picked 10th by Los Angeles. Davis made history at just 13 years old during the 2014 Little League World Series, becoming the first girl to win a game and pitch a shutout.
The draft featured a total of 120 players, showcasing the growing talent pool in women’s baseball. Each of the league’s teams, including those from New York and Boston, conducted five picks per round, with the order determined by a random draw. The highly competitive environment reflects the league’s commitment to elevating women’s sports.
Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred opened the event, praising the WPBL for its groundbreaking launch. The league will operate out of Robin Roberts Stadium in Springville, Illinois, hosting all games during the seven-week season, which includes a four-week regular season, all-star activities, and playoffs.
Notably, Japan’s Ayami Sato was selected second overall by Los Angeles. Sato, a five-time World Cup winner and three-time tournament MVP, adds significant experience to the league. The third pick went to U.S. infielder Kylee Lahners, with Boston selecting South Korean catcher Hyeonah Kim at number four.
The WPBL was co-founded by Justine Siegal, who made history as the first woman to coach for an MLB team with the Oakland Athletics in 2015. This league is the first professional baseball league for women since the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League dissolved in 1954, a story famously depicted in the film “A League of Their Own.”
The league’s recent four-day tryout camp in Washington saw over 600 hopefuls vying for a spot, emphasizing the interest and passion surrounding women’s baseball. As the league gears up for its inaugural season, all eyes will be on these talented players making history in the sport.
Stay tuned for further updates as the WPBL prepares for its exciting debut and watch for potential surprises as teams finalize their 30-player rosters down to 15 by season start.
