When Ted Barrett evaluates an aspiring umpire, he looks for two essential traits: physical strength and humility. Jen Pawol, 48, has both in abundance. A former catcher who played at Hofstra University, Pawol impressed Barrett at a camp in Atlanta in 2015 and went on to attend the MLB’s umpire academy.
Pawol will become the first female umpire in MLB history when she makes her debut this weekend working the bases in a doubleheader between the Braves and Marlins. Barrett, who retired in 2022 after 29 seasons as a major-league umpire, says Pawol has “perseverance” – a quality he believes is crucial for success in the minor leagues.
Pawol’s journey began at West Milford High School, where she started umpiring for $15 a game. She eventually won a scholarship to MLB’s umpire academy and spent over 1,200 games in the Gulf Coast League. Barrett notes that Pawol has “expanded her goals” beyond women’s softball and says he was proud of her determination.
As Pawol prepares for her historic debut, she reflects on the trailblazers who paved the way for her. She met Pam Postema, a female umpire who played in spring training 1988, just two years ago and has said she wants to “get it done.”
Pawol’s dream of becoming an MLB umpire was fueled by the likes of Roger Maris, Travis Hafner, Darin Erstad, and Rick Helling – all from North Dakota. Her childhood idols included Johan Santana and Kirby Puckett.
In a world where baseball is still evolving, Pawol says she’s excited to be part of it. She hopes her debut will inspire young girls to follow in her footsteps and become umpires themselves. As for Pawol, she’s ready for the challenge – “I’m getting it done.”
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6537003/2025/08/07/jen-pawol-mlb-female-umpire-ted-barrett