UPDATE: Jen Pawol is poised to make history as the first female umpire in Major League Baseball (MLB) in over a century. The groundbreaking debut is set for this weekend, specifically during a doubleheader between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves on July 15, 2023, in Atlanta, Georgia.
Pawol, who received the life-changing call while in her hotel room in Nashville, Tennessee, expressed her overwhelming emotions, stating, “I was overcome with emotion. It was super emotional to finally be living that phone call that I’d been hoping for.” This significant milestone comes after a decade-long journey through the ranks of baseball officiating.
The announcement was made during a conference call with Rich Rieker, director of umpire development, and Matt McKendry, vice president of umpire operations. Pawol is not just breaking gender barriers; she’s also inspiring future generations of female athletes and officials. “The hopes of this are that it inspires,” said Ted Barrett, a former big league umpire who played a pivotal role in her career.
Pawol’s journey began in the early 1990s when she took a summer job as an umpire at West Milford High School in New Jersey. With a modest pay of $15 per game, she recalled being encouraged by a teammate to give umpiring a try, stating, “I didn’t think twice about it.” Since then, she has emerged as a dedicated umpire, logging over 1,200 minor league games and countless hours of video review to hone her skills.
After progressing through various leagues, including the Gulf Coast League and the Triple-A International League, Pawol was called for MLB spring training in both 2024 and 2025. She will join Chris Guccione’s crew during the two-game series in Atlanta, with around 30 family and friends expected to attend her historic debut.
Pawol’s emotional journey has resonated with many, including fellow minor league umpires who have provided support and mentorship. She expressed gratitude towards her predecessors, stating, “I texted [Pam Postema] yesterday and said, ‘I’m getting it done!'” Her commitment to the sport has not gone unnoticed, with Barrett noting her physical readiness and eagerness to learn as key factors in her success.
As she prepares for this weekend, Pawol aims to perform with the utmost professionalism and integrity. “Umpiring is for me; it’s in my DNA. It’s been a long, hard journey,” she stated. This milestone not only marks a significant achievement for Pawol but also serves as a beacon of hope for young women aspiring to break into traditionally male-dominated fields.
Fans and aspiring umpires alike are encouraged to tune in as Jen Pawol steps onto the field this weekend, proving that dreams are achievable with passion and perseverance. This weekend’s games could potentially inspire the next generation of female umpires, making Pawol’s debut a pivotal moment in sports history.
