Major League Baseball has FINALLY made a long-awaited announcement about a change coming to their umpiring crew. And sadly, no, they aren't bringing in the ROBOT UMPS . . . yet.
MLB is calling up its first female umpire who will be promoted for Saturday's Miami Marlins - Atlanta Braves game.
Her name is Jen Pawol . . . She'll work the bases during the doubleheader that day, and be behind the plate on Sunday.
Commissioner Rob Manfred said, "This historic accomplishment in baseball is a reflection of Jen's hard work, dedication, and love of the game. She's earned this opportunity, and we are proud of the strong example she has set."
Jen has worked MLB spring training games the past two years, and has been umpiring in the minor leagues since 2016 . . . including working the plate for the 2023 Triple-A championship game.
She will become the fifth (human) umpire to debut this year.
As important as this is for women, it's 2025 . . . and MLB is FAR behind other sports, which have had female officials for MANY years.
Violet Palmer became the NBA's first female referee in 1997 . . . 28 years ago.
Shannon Eastin became the NFL's first female on-field official in 2012, as a replacement when regular officials were locked out. And Sarah Thomas became the NFL's first permanent female on-field official in 2015.
Stéphanie Frappart of France became the first woman to referee a men's World Cup game in 2022. And Rebecca Welch became the first to referee in England's Premier League when she debuted in 2023.
The NHL still has not had any women as on-ice officials.