Top 10 Greatest Female Baseball Players of All Time

News: Baseball is often seen as a sport reserved only for men. While women excel in various other sports like softball, soccer, volleyball, and basketball, their involvement in baseball often goes unnoticed. However, women have been actively participating in baseball for a significant period.

Contrary to popular belief, there are exceptional female baseball players who have made significant contributions to the sport. If you’re curious about these remarkable athletes, here’s a starting point—a list of the top 10 female baseball players.

1. Dottie Schroeder

Known as “The Human Vacuum Machine,” Dorothy Schroeder was a standout player in the All American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) from 1943 to 1954. Her remarkable fielding skills at shortstop earned her a well-deserved place among the top 10 female baseball players.

2. Toni Stone

Toni Stone made history by becoming the first woman to play in the Negro League in 1953. Despite facing discrimination, she stood tall as a symbol of women’s rights and civil liberties in the United States. Stone’s baseball journey began at the age of ten, and she even replaced the legendary Hank Aaron at second base for the Indianapolis Clowns.

3. Sophie Kurys

Sophie Kurys, nicknamed “Tina Cobb,” was recognized for her incredible base-stealing abilities. In 1946, she stole 201 bases in just 113 games, tying the record for both the AAGPBL and professional baseball. Her exceptional skill was further highlighted by being caught stealing only twice that year.

4. Dorothy Kamenshek

Dorothy Kamenshek stands as one of the top ten female baseball players and holds the record for the most hits in the history of the AAGPBL. With an impressive 1,009 hits and a batting average of .292, she left an indelible mark on the league.

5. Julie Croteau

Julie Croteau holds the distinction of being the first woman to play men’s NCAA baseball and coach men’s NCAA Division I baseball. Her determination to pursue baseball, despite facing obstacles like a failed lawsuit against her high school, showcases her resilience.

6. Jean Faut

Jean Faut’s exceptional pitching career in the AAGPBL is highlighted by her consistent performance. Her ERA never exceeded 1.60 in her nine-year career, earning her multiple All-Star selections and Player of the Year titles. Faut pitched four no-hitters and holds the distinction of being the only professional baseball pitcher to throw two perfect games.

7. Ila Borders

Ila Borders, a left-handed pitcher, made significant strides as the second woman to start an NCAA baseball game against men. Her entry into an independent professional baseball league in 1997 paved the way for future female players despite her limited appearances and statistics.

8. Connie Wisniewski

Connie Wisniewski’s stellar performance in 1945, with a 32-11 record and a 0.81 ERA, earned her the Player of the Year title. Her resilience and exceptional skills on the field led to her monikers “Polish Rifle” and “Iron Woman.” Wisniewski remains among the top all-around players in the AAGPBL’s history.

9. Eri Yoshida

Eri Yoshida, hailing from Japan, secured her place among the top female baseball players at the age of 16 when she was drafted by a Japanese men’s professional baseball club in 2008.

10. Doris Sams

Doris Sams is celebrated as perhaps the sole six-tool player in AAGPBL history. Her versatility in fielding, running, throwing, pitching, and hitting for both average and power solidified her position as the greatest female baseball player of all time.