Born: 1975
Biography:
Ila Jane Borders, born on February 18, 1975, is a former left-handed pitcher in college and independent professional baseball player. She achieved numerous baseball milestones at the college and professional levels, blazing a trail for women in a male-dominated sport. Borders is best known as the first female pitcher to start and win a men’s professional baseball game.
Borders began her baseball journey at Southern California College, where she played from 1994 to 1996. In 1995, she made history as the first woman to start as a pitcher in a men’s collegiate baseball game. Her outstanding performance on the field earned her a baseball scholarship, making Borders the first woman to receive such an honor in men’s collegiate baseball.
In the summer of 1995, Borders continued to break barriers by becoming the first woman to play for The Canadian Collegiate Premier Wooden Bat League, representing the Swift Current Indians. Her exceptional skills as a pitcher continued to draw attention and open doors for female athletes in the world of baseball.
Borders reached new heights in 1997 when she signed with the St. Paul Saints of the independent Northern League, becoming one of the first female pitchers in integrated men’s professional baseball. On May 31, 1997, she made her regular season debut against the Sioux Falls Canaries. Although she hit the first batter she faced, balked, and gave up three earned runs without recording an out, Borders showed her resilience and talent in subsequent appearances.
Later in the 1997 season, Borders was traded to the Duluth–Superior Dukes. While her opportunities to pitch were limited, she made a significant impact from the bullpen. Despite the challenges, Borders continued to prove her worth and passion for the sport.
The following year, on July 7, 1998, Borders made history once again by becoming the first female pitcher to start a men’s professional baseball game. The game saw her as the starting pitcher in an 8-3 home loss to the Sioux Falls Canaries. Although Borders was credited with a loss, her performance marked a groundbreaking moment in sports history.
July 24, 1998, solidified Borders’ place in baseball lore, as she became one of the first female pitchers to record a win in professional men’s baseball. In a 3-1 home victory against the Sioux Falls Canaries, Borders showcased her talent and determination. The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum recognized the significance of this achievement and received a donation of a baseball from the game and the line-up cards.
Throughout her career, Borders faced numerous challenges and overcame societal expectations to pursue her passion for baseball. Her courage and talent paved the way for future generations of female athletes, inspiring them to break down barriers and shatter stereotypes.
Awards:
– Hall of Fame donation: Baseball from a game and line-up cards