In the early 1970s, I used to play sandlot baseball with both boys and girls in Troy parks. We would take over the RPI fields on hot summer days until we were chased away. I spent time playing catch with my brothers and father, and watching baseball on TV with my mother and grandmother. I even learned how to keep score at Little League games where my brothers played.
When I was 9 years old in 1971, Maria Pepe made national headlines for trying to break the gender barrier in Little League Baseball. Unfortunately, by the time the courts ruled in her favor in 1974, it was already too late for both of us. I eventually moved on to playing softball and other sports, but baseball always held a special place in my heart.
Recently, I watched the “See Her Be Her” documentary which highlights the history of women and girls in baseball. The documentary follows seven baseball players from seven different countries and sheds light on their struggles and triumphs in a male-dominated sport. The film is not just about baseball, but about empowering women to dream big and reach their full potential in any sport they choose.
The documentary was brought to my attention by Tim Wiles, a former director at the National Baseball Hall of Fame, who has been an expert on women’s baseball for decades. The film features an all-star cast of MLB legends and women’s sports advocates who support and champion the cause of women in baseball.
The stories of women like Allison Schroder, Ayami Sato, Lillian Nayiga, and Soyeon Park are truly inspiring. These women have faced discrimination, personal struggles, and societal expectations, but have persevered to excel in the sport they love. The documentary also addresses the misconception that women should play softball instead of baseball, highlighting the unique skills and challenges of each sport.
One of the featured players, Kelsie Whitmore, has faced backlash on social media for playing baseball professionally. Despite the criticism, she remains determined to be a role model for young girls everywhere and show them that they too can succeed in baseball. Whitmore’s story is just one example of the resilience and talent of women in baseball.
Looking ahead, the Women’s Pro Baseball League is set to launch in 2026 with plans to expand across the United States. The league aims to provide a platform for women to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. With over 500 players already registered to try out, the future looks bright for women in baseball.
“See Her Be Her” offers a glimpse into the struggles and successes of women in baseball and serves as a powerful reminder that gender should not limit one’s dreams and aspirations. The documentary is a celebration of the resilience, talent, and determination of women in a sport that has long been dominated by men. As we continue to support and uplift women in baseball, we pave the way for future generations to follow their passion and excel in the sport they love.
