Touches on the heartwarming anecdote involving Adam Wainwright and Jen Pawol, further accentuating his reputable image as an affable individual.
Adam Wainwright, the St. Louis Cardinals' veteran pitcher, is making headlines for more than just his performance on the field. During a recent rehab start at Triple-A Memphis, Wainwright crossed paths with a historic figure in Major League Baseball (MLB) - Jen Pawol, the first woman umpire in MLB history.
Pawol, who has worked over 1,200 Minor League games throughout her career, made her MLB debut in a significant doubleheader between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves. On Sunday afternoon, she will be calling balls and strikes once again, this time during a game involving Wainwright and the Cardinals.
The encounter between Wainwright and Pawol during the rehab start was noteworthy. As part of the routine check for foreign substances, Pawol inspected Wainwright's equipment. Wainwright, a father of daughters, expressed his admiration for Pawol's achievement as a woman umpire in MLB and wished her good luck.
This moment of mutual respect between Wainwright and Pawol is a symbol of the progress being made in baseball. Wainwright's daughters were reportedly inspired by Pawol's achievement, reflecting the impact she is having on the next generation of baseball fans and potential participants.
Beyond this encounter, there are no publicly reported significant moments or interactions between Wainwright and Pawol. However, their relationship is highlighted as a warm, supportive exchange during that rehab game.
In addition to this unique encounter, Wainwright has had a remarkable career both on and off the field. He won the Roberto Clemente Award in 2020, recognising his character, community involvement, philanthropy, and contributions. Through Big League Impact, Wainwright raised $5.8 million for charitable causes, providing water and education services in Haiti.
Despite starting the 2023 season on the Injured List due to a groin injury, Wainwright has been making a comeback. He had two rehab starts at Double-A Springfield and one at Triple-A Memphis, where he faced Pawol. His lone start at Triple-A Memphis resulted in him going 5.2 innings, giving up four runs, striking out nine, and walking only one.
As we look forward to Sunday's game, the encounter between Wainwright and Pawol serves as a reminder of the progress being made in baseball and the inspiring stories that unfold both on and off the field.
During his rehab game at Triple-A Memphis, Adam Wainwright encountered Jen Pawol, the first woman umpire in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. Wainwright, who had admiration for Pawol's achievement, wished her good luck, and this moment was a symbol of the progress being made in sports and baseball.
