Born: July 5, 1998
Biography:
Kelsie Whitmore (born July 5, 1998) is an American professional baseball pitcher and outfielder. She made history by becoming the first woman to appear in the starting lineup in an Atlantic League game. Whitmore’s journey in the world of baseball began during her youth, where she played Little League Baseball and PONY Baseball. Despite being the only female on her school’s baseball team at Temecula Valley High School in Temecula, California, she showcased her talent and determination.
Whitmore’s skills in baseball earned her a scholarship to California State University, Fullerton. While attending college, she played college softball for the Cal State Fullerton Titans. This dedication and talent led to an exceptional performance during the 2021 season, where she boasted an impressive .395 batting average, a .507 on-base percentage, and a .824 slugging percentage. Her outstanding performance earned her the title of the Big West Conference’s softball player of the year.
Whitmore’s baseball journey expanded beyond college as she joined the United States women’s national baseball team while still in high school. She represented her country in numerous international tournaments, winning a silver medal at the 2014 Women’s Baseball World Cup and a gold medal in the 2015 Pan American Games. Her contributions to the team continued until 2019, during which she maintained an impressive 1.35 earned run average as a pitcher.
In 2016, Whitmore made history once again when she and Stacy Piagno became the first female teammates in professional baseball since the 1950s. The Sonoma Stompers of the Pacific Association, an independent baseball league, signed both athletes. Whitmore’s impact on the team extended beyond her joining as she recorded her first professional hit on July 20 of that year. She continued to play for the Sonoma Stompers during the 2017 season.
Another notable achievement in Whitmore’s career was her participation in the 2018 Women’s Baseball World Cup. Representing the United States, she played a crucial role in the team’s journey to a fourth-place finish. During her time with the national team, Whitmore’s talent and skill as a pitcher shone through, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
In October 2021, Whitmore expanded her baseball horizons once again by joining the Portland Pickles of the West Coast League. While playing against the Venados de Mazatlán of the Mexican Pacific League, she showcased her skills as a pitcher by pitching five innings without allowing a single run.
As of 2022, Whitmore currently plays for the Staten Island FerryHawks of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, further solidifying her place in the sport’s history. Her unwavering dedication, trailblazing achievements, and impact on women’s baseball have left a lasting legacy and continue to inspire aspiring athletes around the world.
Awards:
– Big West Conference’s softball player of the year (2021)