Jen Paul made history this past weekend, becoming the first woman to umpire in major league baseball.
After a decade filled with more than 1,200 minor league games across various levels, she was invited to join the crew for the Atlanta Braves and Miami Marlins series.
Fans at Truist Park showed her overwhelming support as she made her debut during the first game of a doubleheader.
Some fans expressed their encouragement, with one sign reading, “Welcome to Shaughen,” and another saying, “Thank you, Jen!”
Shortly after her first call, Paul remarked, “I know gravity. I know the size,” reflecting on her experience.
She emphasized her role as a role model, saying, “I’m a very good steward for young girls and women, as well as boys and men. I believe this is possible.”
While PAM Postema had umpired during spring training in 1988 and 1989, she was never called up for the regular season. Christine Ren and Leah Cortecio have both held double-A positions.
Paul views these figures as mentors and sources of inspiration. “The judge is for me. It’s in my DNA,” she mentioned. “It’s been a long and tough journey to get here. But I love the crew and camaraderie with my fellow umpires. I enjoy traveling and exercising.”
Reflecting on the similarities between being an athlete and an umpire, she added, “You don’t leave the field when you umpire. I’m very focused on making calls.”
