Like many other areas of life during World War II, a shortage of manpower led to opportunities for women. When minor league ballparks were emptied of players, as young men went off to war, a women's league was started, under an initiative headed by Philip Wrigley, owner of the Chicago Cubs. Known as the All American Girl's Baseball League, rules were established that incorporated elements from softball and baseball. The South Bend Blue Sox were one team in a league of four that also included the Racine Belles, the Rockford Peaches, and the Kenosha Comets. The Blue Sox had All-Star catcher Mary "Bonnie" Baker, recruited from a Canadian softball team. The first game was played on May 30, 1943. For more information go to the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League site.