AAGPBL Interview - Pat Scott

Pat was a pitcher in the early 1950s. She recently took some time to answer our survey:

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

There was a baseball field on my mom and dad's farm. The semi-pro teams played there on weekends and also practiced there during the week. The fellows taught me how to field, catch, bat and really learn about baseball. I was about ten years old at the time and love the game more every year.

2) Describe your signing.

In 1948 my dad saw an ad in our local Sunday paper inviting girls to come to Chicago to try out for the All American Girls Baseball League. I tried out and signed my first contract. I was thrilled. My dream to play baseball came true. Unfortunately I did not get to play long as I has to return home due to illness in my family. However, I did return to the league in 1951-3.

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

In 1948 I was with the Springfield Sallies. I pitched for the Ft. Wayne Daisies 1951-1952-1953.

4) 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 felt that the press and fans accepted us as good athletes after seeing the way we played and knew the game. By the time I started the league was well established and the fans really looked forward to seeing the girls play.

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

The players I liked: Babe Ruth, Jimmie Foxx, Bucky Walters, Ewell Blackwell, Nolan Ryan, Roger Clemens and Hal Morris.

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

I do not follow it as close as I used to. I watch games and I don't see the hustle that there used to be in the game. With all the fine equipment in the club houses these days, I don't understand why there are so many injuries. Also, it's pretty bad when you can't learn to get a bunt down. And what's with the pitchers only going five innings?

7) Should women have their own pro league, should they play in the majors, or should we have both?

As Mr. Wrigley said, I want to see good athletic players, but I also want to see ladies. I would not like to see them in the majors with men. This has been tried in college and that is as far as it got, I believe. I don't see this happening. I understand there are a few baseball leagues around the country, but they are women's leagues.

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