WPBL!

Joyous Vagaries took a detour from the usual hiking/biking activities, spending 14 days in Springfield, IL to attend all of the post-season games of the WPBL (Women’s Pro Baseball League) at Robin Roberts Stadium.  2026 is the inaugural season of the WPBL, which consisted of four teams:  Boston Hunters, New York Heights, Los Angeles Queens, and San Francisco Firebells.  

The first playoff games of the season where between the Hunters and Firebells.  The Firebells took it in two games, thus eliminating the Hunters from the Championship.  The next two teams in the playoffs were between the NY Heights and LA Queens.  The Queens won the playoff after three games, edging out the Heights.  

After a day off, we regrouped and started the five-game series.  Megan Cavanagh (aka, Marla Hooch, #32, from the movie, A League of Their Own) was present to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Game 1.  For us, it was the greatest of pleasures to meet her, and have our WPBL ball and pennant signed by her.  

The LA Queens dominated in the first two games, making most Firebells fans concerned about a “Queens sweep”.  The Firebells made a comeback, winning the next two games, and forcing a game five.  The Bells were absolutely on fire, but they just couldn’t pull it off due (in no small part) to the masterful pitching from Ayami Sato!  She is an absolutely amazing pitcher.  

All four of these teams were truly amazing.  We are grateful to have been there for this inaugural season.  We are looking forward to many more seasons of women’s professional baseball.

BONUS:  While at the stadium, we acquired some awesome bling from Bailee, a member of the Security team who helped keep us all safe at the stadium, and an outstanding grand-daughter, if ever there was one! Kudos to the entire Staff and Vendors at Robin Roberts Stadium.  They did a great job, and did it cheerfully.

Please visit the WPBL 2026 Gallery to see all images from the games.

Up next…. continuing towards the unknown! 

Travel often, stay safe, well, and joyous!