The Women’s Pro Baseball League began its inaugural season this weekend in Springfield, Illinois, bringing professional women’s baseball back to the national stage for the first time in more than seven decades. The league, now the fifth such league in U.S. history, opened with a pair of weekend matchups that drew sold‑out crowds for the opening game.
Opening Weekend Schedule
On Saturday, the Los Angeles Queens faced off against the New York Heights at 5 p.m., while Sunday’s slate saw the San Francisco Firebells take on the Boston Hunters at 6:30 p.m. All games were played at Robin Roberts Stadium, the sole venue for the league’s first season, which will run through early September and culminate in a playoff series.
Community Partnerships and Teacher Appreciation
The league’s founding partner, Horace Mann Educators, announced that every Wednesday during the regular season will be dedicated to educators, offering two complimentary tickets to any teacher who presents a valid school ID. This initiative underscores the league’s commitment to community outreach and educational support.
Beyond the on‑field action, the league has partnered with a Springfield‑based insurance firm to sponsor the season, while also highlighting the city’s historical ties to women’s baseball. The choice of Springfield was influenced by its proximity to Chicago and St. Louis and its legacy as a hub for the sport.
With ticket sales for the opening game already sold out, organizers expect strong attendance throughout the summer. The schedule, venue logistics and community programs together aim to build a sustainable foundation for the league’s long‑term growth.