In Springfield, Ill., Robin Roberts Stadium hosted an iconic event. Sarah Hodel and Rachel Koehler arrived early for the Women’s Professional Baseball League’s inaugural game, determined to savor the experience. Hodel, an athletic trainer from Duluth, Minnesota, captured memories as she walked through the concourse, recalling her high school speech on women in baseball.
“Since I learned about this league, attending a game was my goal,” Hodel shared. On Saturday night, that goal was realized as Mo’ne Davis led the Los Angeles Queens to a 10-8 win over Denae Benites and the New York Heights. This marked the first women’s professional baseball game in the U.S. in nearly three decades.
Koehler, from St. Paul, Minnesota, expressed excitement about the opportunities these athletes now have. “Growing up playing softball, I dreamed of a professional baseball career, which wasn’t possible then. Now, girls have this chance, and it’s incredible.”
For the Los Angeles Queens, Maggie Foxx secured the league’s first hit, a two-run single. Benites made history with the WPBL’s first home run in the fourth inning. Despite trailing 8-4, the Queens rallied with two runs in the sixth and four more in the final frame.
Foxx described the emotional depth of the moment: “Being on the field brought tears. This event means everything.” Rain didn’t deter the enthusiastic crowd of over 4,000, many eager for Mo’ne Davis memorabilia. Lines extended to the outfield for merchandise.
Antonietta Mabry from Columbus, Ohio, shared her motivation for attending: “I’m thrilled my daughter sees female professional athletes up close, gaining strong female role models.” Rosalee Mabry, age nine, cherished having her glove signed by Amanda Gianelloni of San Francisco.
The league welcomed its other teams, the Firebells and Boston Hunters, to compete on Sunday. Players even assisted in removing the tarp after rain delays, highlighting the unity and teamwork.
In a meaningful pregame ceremony, the WPBL celebrated the legacy of women’s baseball. Lineups for the Queens and Heights received cheers, punctuated by the unforgettable pitch from 99-year-old Maybelle Blair. Blair, a trailblazer from the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, threw the ceremonial first pitch to Kelsie Whitmore, a WPBL star. “Maybelle’s dedication paved our path,” Benites acknowledged.
Maybelle Blair’s appearance resonated with fans such as Lindsey Keirsey from Fenton, Missouri, who is passionate about the AAGPBL and its cinematic portrayal in “A League of Their Own.” She attended with her family, cherishing the chance to witness history. “Seeing women break new ground in sports like baseball empowers them to conquer more in life,” noted Hadley Keirsey, 17.
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