Post-its, Homework Breaks, and Karaoke: Inside the Women's Pro Baseball League's Debut Season

The first league of its kind in 70 years brought players from all around the world to Illinois for eight weeks, writing a new chapter in the history of women’s sports.

Post-its, Homework Breaks, and Karaoke: Inside the Women's Pro Baseball League's Debut Season

TL;DR

  • The WPBL is the first women's professional baseball league in 70 years.
  • Four teams (Heights, Boston Hunters, San Francisco Firebells, Los Angeles Queens) competed over an eight-week season in Springfield, Illinois.
  • Players came from across the US and 11 other countries.
  • Many players juggled the league with schoolwork or second jobs.
  • Addisyn Baird, the youngest player, balanced games with her senior year of high school.
  • Players engaged in local Illinois culture, including visiting lakes, golf courses, and Chicago, and enjoyed karaoke nights.
  • The Los Angeles Queens defeated the San Francisco Fireballs to become the league's inaugural champions.
  • Coaches and players are already planning for the next season.