WPBL Draft Round One: Laying the Groundwork for a New Era
The inaugural WPBL Draft’s first round offered a glimpse into the league’s future: a mix of elite talent, international reach, and inspiring personal stories. From national team veterans to teenage phenoms, these selections highlight the caliber of athletes stepping onto a professional stage.
Top Picks:
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San Francisco — Kelsie Whitmore, RHP, San Diego, CA
A trailblazer in women’s baseball, Whitmore brings a résumé full of milestones: Forbes 30 Under 30, Pioneer League pioneer, WBSC medalist, and Cooperstown honoree. She’s a franchise ace with undeniable star power. -
Los Angeles — Ayami Sato, RHP, Tokorozawa, Japan
One of the greatest pitchers in women’s baseball, Sato offers veteran leadership and international dominance, strengthening LA’s rotation. -
New York — Kylee Lahners, 3B, Pinehurst, NC
Transitioning from softball to baseball at 25, Lahners adds power, experience, and a fearless mindset to the heart of New York’s lineup. -
Boston — Hyeonah Kim, C, Seoul, South Korea
Kim brings defensive reliability and international experience to a key position behind the plate. -
Boston — Alli Schroder, RHP, Fruitvale, BC
A decorated Canadian national team veteran, Schroder combines toughness, durability, and big-game poise. -
New York — Denae Benites, C, Las Vegas, NV
A multi-sport MVP and four-time national team catcher, Benites brings elite all-around skills and leadership. -
Los Angeles — Ashton Lansdell, 3B, Marietta, GA
Lansdell’s versatility and contact-driven approach strengthen LA’s infield. -
San Francisco — Amanda Gianelloni, 2B, New Orleans, LA
Team USA veteran and former SportsCenter Top 10 honoree, Gianelloni adds leadership and offensive consistency. -
San Francisco — Joely Leguizamon, SS, Dominican Republic
Leguizamon’s resilience and international experience bolster San Francisco’s defensive core. -
Los Angeles — Mo’ne Davis, CF, Philadelphia, PA
Davis, known for her Little League World Series fame, anchors LA’s outfield with proven talent.
The first round also included standout pitchers and position players from Canada, South Korea, and beyond, signaling the WPBL’s global vision and commitment to excellence. These selections not only define each franchise’s identity but also set a new benchmark for women’s professional basebal
