TDA - Alice Haylett Interview

Alice Haylett played for the Grand Rapids Chicks of the old All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. She took the time to answer a few of our questions.

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

Played softball as a kid. County pickup team. Played for a team in Coldwater, MI. Then picked up to play in Battle Creek, MI. From there a team out of Lansing, MI.

2) Describe your signing.

Had an invitation to try out with the Grand Rapids Chicks. Signed with them and played for them for my four years in the league.

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

I played pitcher and outfield.

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

Meeting all those good players and playing the game.

5) What was the worst thing about playing ball?

For me it was hurting my arm and not being able to play any more.

6) What was the highlight of your career?

Having a good season (pitching) 25-5. This was 1948, when she tied Joanne Winter for wins.

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

Hey, they were all good.

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?)

I think I had the best four years of the league. Fans were great. I think people being able to get gas to get around more and TV hurt the league. Who knows?

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

Hal Newhauser, Charlie Gerhringer, Hank Greenberg, Mickey Cochrane...

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

A little bit, I think they get paid too much.

11) Should women have their own pro league, should they play in the majors, or should we have both (a women's league and the chance for the best women players to play in the majors?)

The last would be great.

12) How do you feel about the Silver Bullets?

OK, but hoped tha maybe their own league could have been started.

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

Worked at Kellogg for 30 years. Retired, have enjoyed retirement.

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

Stick with it, maybe an opportunity will come.

I think women should have their own game.

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