A New Era for Women in Baseball
The evening air at Citi Field carried a sense of celebration as the Amazin’ Mets Foundation took the field to recognize individuals who are reshaping baseball. In a pregame ceremony, pitcher Kelsie Whitmore was presented with the 2026 Legacy Award, an honor that spotlights those who drive change within the sport.
Whitmore, who made history as the first overall pick in the inaugural draft of the Women’s Pro Baseball League in 2025, has already compiled a résumé that includes medals with the United States Women’s National Baseball Team, stints in the Atlantic League, and a pioneering role with the Savannah Bananas. Her presence on the mound has broken barriers that once seemed immutable.
The award ceremony also included a $5,000 grant to New York Girls Baseball, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding opportunities for girls in the New York metro area. Alex Cohen, president of the Amazin’ Mets Foundation, praised Whitmore’s influence, noting that her journey ‘opens doors for countless young athletes who see themselves reflected in her story.’
Whitmore’s accolades extend beyond the diamond. She was the first woman to play in the Atlantic League and the first to start a game in the Pioneer League, and she now serves as the first full‑time female pitcher for the Savannah Bananas. Her story is woven together with that of other honorees such as Maybelle Blair and Sarah Langs, each of whom has contributed to a growing tapestry of female participation in a traditionally male‑dominated arena.