Whitmore top pick in historic Women’s Pro Baseball League draft

When the first name was called at the inaugural Women’s Pro Baseball League draft on Thursday night, there was little surprise: When it comes to the world of women’s baseball, Kelsie Whitmore stands out as a giant.

“Kelsie worked her whole life for this moment,” said WPBL co-founder Justine Siegal, herself a trailblazer as the first woman to coach in a men’s league. “She is the first draft pick this century for a women’s pro baseball league, and the WPBL is honored to give her this opportunity. Kelsie represents all the girls and women out there who dream of playing professional baseball.”

“We are honored and excited that one of the greatest athletes on the planet will forever be enshrined in baseball history as the first overall pick in the Women’s Pro Baseball League’s inaugural draft,” fellow WPBL co-founder Keith Stein said. “As a role model for young girls around the world, Whitmore has continued to break barriers throughout her career, inspiring the next generation of players.” MLB