Jen Pawol Establishes New Standards in Baseball as the First Female Umpire

• Jen Pawol has become the first female umpire in MLB.
• Her debut took place on September 10, 2025, in Atlanta.
• Pawol has over 30 years of experience in umpiring.

Jen Pawol has made history as the first female umpire to officiate a game in the regular season of Major League Baseball (MLB). Her debut occurred on September 10, 2025, during a match between the Miami Marlins and the Atlanta Braves. Pawol, a 48-year-old umpire from New Jersey, called the first base during this game.

During her exit onto the field, fans greeted her with applause and supportive chants. "It was amazing when we stepped onto the field, and people started applauding and calling my name," Pawol noted after the game. Her debut in MLB came 28 years after the NBA allowed its first female referee.

Pawol has been working as an umpire for over 30 years, including in youth leagues, and has officiated over 1,200 games. During the match, she demonstrated professionalism, especially when she made a decision regarding player safety based on an emotional moment in the game. Her next assignment will be at third base, and she will also serve as an umpire in the final match of the series, which will take place on Sunday.

In support, Pawol had nearly 30 relatives and friends in attendance, including her father. She also plans to donate the cap she wore during her debut to the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

Pawol is a wonderful role model for women in sports, as her achievements underscore the changes in the sports industry, where gender barriers are gradually being dismantled.

Tags: USA/Sport/Baseball