AAGPBL Interview - Mary Lou Graham

Mary Lou Graham was a bat girl turned pitcher near the end of the League. She took the time to fill out our questionnaire.

1) How did you get interested in playing baseball and where did you play before you turned pro?

My interest started with my big brothers playing sand-lot baseball. Loved it. Any kind of sport!

2) Describe your signing.

I was discovered by the coach-GM of the South Bend Blue Sox. Became a bat girl in 1952 for the team. Then played for them the remaining two years of the league, 1953-4.

3) What position(s) did you play? Which teams did you play for?

South Bend Blue Sox - Pitcher.

4) What was the best thing about playing pro ball?

The traveling, the players, the love of playing and being paid to play.

5) What was the worst thing about playing ball?

Nothing

6) What was the highlight of your career?

Striking out one of the top players on the Ft. Wayne Daisies.

7) Who were the best players you played with or faced? Comments?

They were all great, wonderful athletes.

8) Do you think the fans and press accepted you more as the years wore on? (Describe how it was when you started. Did increased exposure change some minds?)

Yes.

9) Who were your favorite big league ballplayers during the era you played in?

I was only 16 when I became exposed to pro women's baseball, so I didn't know too much about the pro men's teams.

10) Do you follow big league ball now? If so, how do you think it compares with your day?

Yes, mostly at World Series time.

11) How do you feel about the Silver Bullets?

I saw them play in Tucson. They were good, but no match for the men.

12) Briefly describe your life since your pro career ended.

Normal life, with the normal ups and downs. Very blessed with good health. Stay active with golf three to four times a week.

13) What advice do you have for young women who want to become pro ballplayers?

Go for it! You only live once! If you have the natural talent, plus the desire, you can make it!

I was very lucky to have had the chance to play with the AAGPBL. No doubt one of the highlights of my life.

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