BREAKING: Jen Pawol is set to make her major league umpiring debut this weekend, marking a historic moment in baseball history as she becomes the first female umpire in over 150 years. The announcement was made just days before she steps onto the field during a doubleheader between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves on Saturday, July 15, 2024.
Pawol, who received the life-changing call while in her hotel room in Nashville, Tennessee, expressed her overwhelming emotions. “I was overcome with emotion,” she shared during a recent press conference. “It was super emotional to finally be living that phone call that I’d been hoping for and working towards.”
Having dedicated nearly a decade to the pursuit of her dream, Pawol’s journey has been marked by resilience and determination. Since beginning her professional career in the Gulf Coast League on June 24, 2016, she has officiated over 1,200 minor league games, tirelessly honing her skills and passion for the game.
Pawol first took up umpiring in 1990 at West Milford High School in New Jersey, where she was inspired by a teammate to step into the role. “I had no idea what I was doing, but I got to put gear on and call balls and strikes,” she recalled. Her journey led her from high school to NCAA softball, and eventually to the major leagues, where she was invited to umpire spring training in both 2024 and 2025.
She will join Chris Guccione’s crew in Atlanta this weekend, where she expects to have around 30 family and friends supporting her. Pawol is scheduled to work the bases during Saturday’s doubleheader and will call balls and strikes on Sunday.
In her press conference, Pawol highlighted the importance of representation in sports. “The hopes of this are that it inspires,” said Ted Barrett, a former MLB umpire who played a key role in her development. “Who knows, there’ll be a young lady watching the game on TV and says, ‘Hey, I’d like to try that.'”
As she prepares for this monumental occasion, Pawol reflects on the long road she has traveled. Her hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed, with numerous messages of support from fellow umpires and mentors. Just this week, she was congratulated by Jacksonville player Oliver Dunn, who said, “If I make it to the big leagues, we will have both worked all the levels together.”
Pawol’s debut is not just a personal milestone; it represents a significant shift in the landscape of baseball, showcasing the growing inclusion of women in roles traditionally dominated by men. As fans eagerly await her first game, the excitement and anticipation are palpable.
Stay tuned for updates as Jen Pawol makes history this weekend in Atlanta!
