‘Utterly baffled’: the 17-year-old girl who struck out Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig
Summary
In 1931, 17-year-old Jackie Mitchell struck out two baseball legends, Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, during an exhibition game. Though some saw it as a staged publicity stunt, Mitchell showed real skill and challenged the idea that women couldn't compete in baseball.Key Facts
- Jackie Mitchell was 17 years old when she struck out Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig.
- The game was an exhibition match between the New York Yankees and the Chattanooga Lookouts.
- Babe Ruth expressed doubt about women playing baseball regularly, calling them too delicate.
- Joe Engel, president of the Lookouts, was known for publicity stunts to attract fans.
- Mitchell pitched with a side-arm delivery and used a sinker pitch.
- Some sportswriters suggested Ruth and Gehrig struck out on purpose to protect Mitchell.
- Mitchell’s talent was recognized despite debates about the event’s authenticity.
- The event took place during the Great Depression, when teams used stunts to boost attendance.
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