New Jersey native Jen Pawol will become the first woman to umpire a Major League Baseball game, breaking a historic barrier nearly a decade after launching her professional umpiring career.
Pawol, 48, is scheduled to work the bases during Saturday’s doubleheader between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves at Truist Park. She will take her position behind the plate for Sunday’s series finale.
A West Milford native and former Hofstra University softball catcher, Pawol began umpiring in the Gulf Coast League in 2016. She reached Triple-A in 2023, the first woman to do so in 34 years. She served as a Triple-A crew chief in 2024 and has worked Spring Training games in each of the last two seasons.
“Anybody in baseball will tell you that you’ve just got to keep it simple, keep working hard, put your all into it and get ready for the next day,” Pawol said in 2024. “That’s all I think about every day. Get better before tomorrow.”
Her promotion comes as part of MLB’s call-up program, which pulls umpires from Triple-A to fill in as needed during the regular season. Saturday’s doubleheader triggered the addition of a fifth umpire to the crew, opening the door for Pawol’s debut.
“This historic accomplishment in baseball is a reflection of Jen’s hard work, dedication and love of the game,” MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said. “She has earned this opportunity, and we are proud of the strong example she has set, particularly for all the women and young girls who aspire to roles on the field.”
Pawol’s milestone follows years of steady progress. She was the first woman to umpire a Spring Training game since 2007 and worked the Triple-A Championship Game in 2023.
“The Major League Baseball Umpires Association congratulates Jen Pawol on her historic Major League debut,” the MLBUA said in a statement. “This moment represents more than a personal milestone for Jen; it is a groundbreaking step for our profession and for the continued advancement of women in sports. Jen’s achievement is a testament to her skill, dedication, and perseverance. We are proud to stand with Jen as she breaks this barrier, and we look forward to welcoming more women into the umpiring profession.”
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.