LOS ANGELES (AP) — Jen Pawol, who made history last year as the first woman umpire in the major leagues, worked her first big league game of the season on June 5, 2026. She was behind home plate as the Los Angeles Dodgers hosted the Los Angeles Angels.
Why it matters: Pawol's presence in the game continues to break barriers in a traditionally male-dominated profession. Her role as an umpire inspires future generations and highlights the growing inclusivity in sports officiating.
Pawol, 49, was greeted by Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani leading off the bottom of the first inning, a customary interaction he shares with umpires.
She has been a minor league umpire since 2016 and has worked at Triple-A since 2023, demonstrating her commitment to the sport.
Last season, she made history by becoming the first female major league umpire, officiating a total of five big league games.
Driving the news: This game marked another milestone in Pawol's career. She has been part of MLB’s call-up list and previously umpired during spring training for three consecutive years without securing a permanent staff position.
Pawol officiated her first game under the automated balls and strikes challenge system on April 17, 2026, when the Giants visited the Nationals.
She became the first woman to umpire big league spring training games since Ria Cortesio in 2007, paving the way for future female officials.
During Friday’s game, Angels starter Reid Detmers pitched three hitless innings before allowing a single to Freddie Freeman in the fourth.
State of play: The matchup between the Dodgers and Angels was intense, with both teams displaying strong pitching performances early on.
Dodgers starter Roki Sasaki pitched no-hit ball through the first four innings before giving up a double to Nick Madrigal in the fifth.
Both starting pitchers showcased their skills, adding excitement to Pawol's officiating debut of the season.
The big picture: Pawol's role in major league baseball signifies a shift in the culture of sports officiating.
Her achievements are part of a broader movement toward diversity and inclusion in sports, encouraging women to pursue careers in various roles within athletics.
As more women take on prominent positions in sports, it challenges stereotypes and inspires young athletes everywhere.
What they're saying: Pawol's historic presence has drawn attention from fans and players alike.
Ohtani's greeting was a moment of recognition, showing respect and camaraderie between players and officials.
Fans celebrated her return, expressing support for her continued contributions to the game.
By the numbers:
Pawol worked five major league games last season after making her debut on August 9, 2025.
She has umpired in the minor leagues since 2016 and has been at the Triple-A level since 2023.
In 2024, she became the first female umpire to officiate big league spring training games in 17 years.
What's next: As Pawol continues her season, her role will likely evolve as she gains more experience in high-stakes games.
With her history-making presence, she is expected to inspire more women to enter the field of sports officiating.
Fans and players alike look forward to seeing her officiate more games this season and beyond.