Jen Pawol shatters the baseball industry's gender divide by officiating a regular-season match as the league's inaugural female umpire
Historic Debut for Jen Pawol as First Female Umpire in MLB Regular Season
Jen Pawol made history on August 9, 2025, as she became the first female umpire to work a regular-season game in Major League Baseball (MLB). The momentous occasion took place during the first game of a day-night doubleheader between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves at Truist Park.
Pawol, who had been working in the minor leagues since 2016, reached Triple-A in 2023, becoming the first female umpire at that level in 34 years. Her promotion to the major leagues came after a long-awaited call during a Wednesday conference call.
With only a few days to prepare, Pawol was assigned to umpire at first base for the opening game. She was greeted by Marlins manager Clayton McCullough and Braves bench coach Walt Weiss before the game, and she shook hands with Marlins first base coach Tyler Smarslok before taking her position on the right field line for the first pitch.
As Pawol began her duties, a crowd of photographers gathered, eager to capture the historic moment. During the game, she demonstrated her composure and professionalism, earning recognition from players and coaches alike.
Following her debut, Pawol was overwhelmed with emotion. "I was so emotional when I was notified that I would be making my Major League Baseball debut this weekend," she shared. "I couldn't believe it, and I'm still in shock."
On Sunday, Pawol will call pitches behind the plate for the series finale. She will also work third base in Saturday night's second game of the doubleheader. Pawol, a three-time all-conference softball selection pick at Hofstra, is ready to continue making her mark in the world of baseball.
Pawol's historic debut drew a standing ovation from the crowd, and she was checked by her fellow umpires for foreign substances following the first inning. Despite the pressure, Pawol remained focused and professional, demonstrating her readiness to be a part of the MLB family.
As Pawol continues her journey in the major leagues, she serves as an inspiration to young women everywhere, breaking barriers and paving the way for future female umpires in baseball.
Jen Pawol's accomplishment as the first female umpire in MLB regular season opens doors for women in sports, particularly baseball. After her successful debut in a day-night doubleheader between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves, she will now call pitches from behind the plate and work third base in subsequent games.
