Jen Pawol made history this weekend, becoming the first woman to umpire a game in the major leagues.
After working over 1,200 minor league games at every level over the past 10 seasons, Pawol was given the call to be part of the crews for the Marlins-Braves series in Atlanta.
She received plenty of support from fans at Truist Park for her debut in the first game of the doubleheader.
Several fans brought signs of encouragement.
One read: “Welcome to The Show Jen.”
Another said: “Thank You, Jen!”
“I’m aware of the gravity. I’m aware of the magnitude,” Pawol said shortly after her call-up.
“I believe that I’m going to be a very good steward and representative for young girls and women, and boys and men, that this is possible.”
In 1988-89, Pam Postema umpired games in spring training, but was never called up during the regular season.
Christine Wren and Ria Cortesio both got as far as Double-A.
Those three have all served as mentors and sources of inspiration for Pawol.
“Umpiring is for me. It’s in my DNA,” Pawol said. “It’s been a long, hard journey to the top here. But I just love the camaraderie with my crew, with the fellow umpires. I love the travel. I love working out.
“There’s so many similarities being an athlete and an umpire, and I never have to leave the field when I’m umpiring. I’m just extremely focused on getting my calls right. And I’m so grateful to all those along the way who have helped me become a better umpire every day.”
