The Rise of Women’s Baseball: A Historical Perspective and Future Outlook

Baseball, often hailed as America’s pastime, has a history deeply intertwined with the participation of women, dating back to the 19th century. While the narrative often centers on men, women have been playing the game, organizing teams, and contributing to its evolution since its early days. This fact is often overshadowed by the prominence of softball as the primary sport for women, leading to a historical narrative that requires a closer examination.

The Excerpt podcast recently delved into this topic, featuring Callie Batts Maddox, an associate professor of Sports Leadership and Management at Miami University, who shed light on the rich history of women’s baseball and the exciting developments on the horizon, including the launch of the Women’s Pro Baseball League in 2026.

The podcast highlighted the increasing presence of women in professional baseball, not only as fans but also as employees, coaches, and managers. Recent statistics indicate a significant rise in women holding coaching and managerial positions across major and minor league levels, a 95% increase in just two years. This surge is indicative of both growing interest and expanding opportunities for women in the sport.

Maddox emphasized that Major League Baseball has taken steps to create pipeline opportunities for women, including mentorship programs that connect aspiring professionals with experienced women in the field. These initiatives are crucial in fostering a supportive environment and paving the way for future generations of female leaders in baseball.

Delving into the history of women’s baseball, Maddox revealed that women were organizing baseball teams at colleges and universities as early as the 1860s, during the Civil War era. These were not just casual games; they were playing hardball, the same version of the game played by men. In the 1920s, Bloomer Girl teams barnstormed across the country, spreading the game and demonstrating women’s commitment to baseball.

The All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, founded in 1943, is often considered a pivotal moment in women’s baseball history. However, Maddox pointed out that it’s essential to acknowledge the presence of women in baseball long before this league emerged. The AAGPBL provided women from working-class backgrounds with the chance to play ball, earn a living, and build lasting relationships.

The conversation also addressed the reasons why women were eventually pushed towards softball. Maddox explained that softball, invented in 1887, was initially intended for both men and women, but over time, it became associated with women due to prevailing cultural assumptions. Softball was perceived as a surrogate to baseball, a less demanding version of the game that didn’t require as much strength or endurance. This shift was tied to broader societal changes and gendered meanings that influenced the perception of women’s roles in sports.

The influence of media and pop culture in shaping the perception of women’s baseball was also discussed. The 1992 movie "A League of Their Own" played a significant role in revitalizing interest in the history of women’s baseball and sparking conversations about the lack of opportunities for women in the sport. More recent documentaries, such as "See Her, Be Her," are exploring the globalization of women’s baseball, highlighting the growing participation of women in the sport worldwide.

Despite the progress made, Maddox acknowledged that significant barriers still exist for women in baseball. The stubborn cultural stereotype that baseball is a sport for boys and men continues to funnel girls towards softball, limiting their opportunities to play hardball. Overcoming this stereotype and ensuring that women have access to baseball at all levels requires a concerted effort to challenge existing assumptions and create a more inclusive environment.

To encourage more girls to play baseball, Maddox emphasized the importance of establishing a solid pipeline of opportunities, from Little League to college and beyond. Organizations like Baseball For All are working to create tournaments and events for girls, but more support is needed to ensure that girls who love baseball have the chance to pursue their passion without being forced to switch to softball.

When asked about key figures in women’s baseball, Maddox mentioned Kelsie Whitmore, who has been playing professional baseball with men, and Ayami Sato from Japan, considered one of the best women’s pitchers in the world. These athletes serve as role models for young girls, demonstrating that women can excel in baseball and inspire others to follow their dreams.

Looking ahead, Maddox expressed excitement about the upcoming Women’s Pro Baseball League, which is slated to launch in 2026. She hopes that the league will be a global one, with representation from international players, further promoting the development of women’s baseball worldwide. She also highlighted the growth of the Women’s Baseball World Cup, which has been held every two or four years for the past two decades, demonstrating the global interest in women’s baseball.

The future of women’s baseball looks promising, with growing opportunities at all levels, increasing media coverage, and the launch of a professional league. By challenging stereotypes, creating supportive environments, and providing role models, the sport can continue to evolve and provide women with the chance to pursue their passion for baseball. The journey of women’s baseball is far from over, and the coming years hold the potential for even greater strides towards equality and inclusion in the sport.