Women’s baseball has been gaining more recognition and support in recent years, and the inaugural draft of the Women’s Pro Baseball League only solidifies this fact. The draft took place on Thursday night and made history as Kelsie Whitmore was picked first overall by the San Francisco franchise. But the excitement did not end there, as Arwen McCullough of Livermore was also selected by the same team less than an hour later. This not only marks a significant moment for these talented athletes, but also for the sport of women’s baseball.
Whitmore, at the age of 27, has already achieved so much in her baseball career. She was the first woman to play in the Arizona Fall League and also made headlines when she became the first female to receive a college scholarship for baseball. And now, being picked first overall in the Women’s Pro Baseball League draft, she has proved once again that her skills and determination are unmatched.
Her new teammate, McCullough, also has an impressive track record in baseball. She was a standout player in high school and even caught the attention of Major League Baseball scouts. However, due to the lack of opportunities for women in baseball, McCullough had to put her dreams on hold. But now, with the launch of the Women’s Pro Baseball League, she has the chance to finally pursue her passion at a professional level.
Both Whitmore and McCullough are thrilled to be part of the San Francisco franchise and make history together. The team’s manager, Alex Anthopoulos, expressed his excitement for the new additions to the team, stating that they are both talented players who will bring a lot to the table.
The Women’s Pro Baseball League was founded with the aim of providing a platform for women to showcase their skills and passion for the sport. With the success of the inaugural draft, it is clear that the league is making waves in the world of women’s sports. The league also aims to inspire and encourage young girls to pursue their dreams, no matter what challenges they may face.
The draft also included other talented players, such as pitcher Amanda Asay and outfielder Shelby Estocado, who were selected by the Houston and Chicago franchises respectively. These players, along with Whitmore and McCullough, are trailblazers for women’s baseball and will undoubtedly pave the way for future generations of female athletes.
The Women’s Pro Baseball League is not just about breaking barriers, it is also about the love for the game. As Whitmore stated in an interview, “It’s not about being a girl, it’s about being a ballplayer.” This sentiment perfectly captures the essence of the league and the determination of these athletes to play the sport they love.
The inaugural draft of the Women’s Pro Baseball League has set the tone for what is sure to be an exciting and groundbreaking season. With talented players like Whitmore and McCullough leading the charge, women’s baseball is poised to reach new heights. As fans, let us all come together to support and celebrate the achievements of these incredible athletes. Who knows, maybe one day we will see a women’s baseball league on par with the likes of Major League Baseball. The possibilities are endless and the future looks bright for women in baseball.
