Michelle Smith Makes History

Michele Smith is living my childhood dream today for the Atlanta Braves-Los Angeles Dodgers game, becoming the first woman color commentator to work an MLB game.

I grew up listening to Mike Krukow, Duane Kuiper, Jon Miller and Joe Morgan, aspiring to become a color commentator like them. In fourth grade, I wrote my “When I Grow Up” report on being a commentator for the Giants. Since everyone always told me I spoke very fast and loud, I figured it would be a good match. Add my love for the game, and it was the perfect job for me.

Being a woman in sports is not quite a breeze, but it’s getting there. Doors are really opening up for us, and I feel we are just hitting the tip of the iceberg. A perfect example is the amount of women on-field reporters in the game today. They’re not there because of their appearance, but for their love, knowledge and experience in sports.

While we have broken barriers in reporting, Michele has taken it one step further. The ASA Hall of Famer and two-time Olympic gold medalist may be the perfect candidate for the commentating job. This is just going to continue to move mountains for generations of girls who truly love sports and want to pursue the career of their choice in the industry.

I advise everyone to listen to the Braves-Dodgers game today, not only to witness history, but to listen to the game as you would always listen to it. Hearing a few extremely knowledgeable and qualified people talk about a really great ball game. It would also be pretty cool if the Braves win! #BEATLA!!!

Go Giants and Bravos,

Smash