Georgia: The first female MLB umpire has stepped into the spotlight, making history during a regular season game between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves.
Jen Pawol, 48, has served as first base umpire in Atlanta, Georgia, earning loud cheers and a standing ovation from the crowd.
Pawol has stated that she is aware of the gravity and magnitude of the moment, describing the experience as intense and emotional. Supporters in the stands have displayed signs reading ‘Pawol making HERstory’ and ‘the time has come for one & all to play ball.’
History ❤️
Umpiring first base for Game 1 of today’s Marlins-Braves doubleheader, Jen Pawol has become the first woman to umpire in a regular-season MLB game. pic.twitter.com/DG2oHqhE6O
— MLB (@MLB) August 9, 2025
Following the game, Pawol has donated the hat she wore to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in recognition of the achievement. Pawol is scheduled to take charge at third base on Saturday night, and all eyes will be on her on Sunday when she will call balls and strikes from behind home plate.
A native of New Jersey, Pawol has worked extensively in the minor leagues, officiating more than 1,200 games over her 30-year career. Around 30 family members and friends, along with players, managers, and fellow umpires, have attended to show their support.
Pawol’s debut comes nearly three decades after the NBA appointed its first female referee, with the NFL following 10 years ago and the men’s football World Cup introducing a female referee in 2022. The NHL remains the only major North American men’s league without a female official.
The first female MLB umpire’s appearance has been hailed as a long-awaited milestone for diversity and representation in professional baseball.
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