AAGPBL Interview - Dolores Mueller

Dolores Mueller was a member of the South Bend Blue Sox. She took the time to answer a few of our questions.

1) How did you get interested in playing baseball and where did you play before you turned pro?

I played all sports from the age of 8 years old. I played 14" softball when I was young. I played at Thillens Stadium in 1948, on the farm teams.

2) Describe your signing.

When I signed, my parents had to sign with me because I was underage. I was very happy when I signed.

3) What position(s) did you play? Which teams did you play for?

My position was pitcher, I played for the South Bend Blue Sox.

4) What was the best thing about playing pro ball?

Meeting new friends and playing against great players.

5) What was the worst thing about playing ball?

There were no bad things about playing baseball.

6) What was the highlight of your career?

Just being able to play professional ball. Going on the train to South Bend for the first time with my friend Terry McKinley and meeting the manager and players.

7) Who were the best players you played with or faced? Comments?

Lou Arnold, Jean Faut, Terry Donahue and many others.

8) Do you think the fans and press accepted you more as the years wore on? (Describe how it was when you started. Did increased exposure change some minds?)

Yes to more exposure.

9. Who were your favorite big league ballplayers during the era you played in?

Andy Pafko, Dick Wakefield and Ray Mueller.

10) Do you follow big league ball now? If so, how do you think it compares with your day?

Yes, but I liked it better years ago. The teams played harder.

11) Should women have their own pro league, should they play in the majors, or should we have both (a women's league and the chance for the best women players to play in the majors?)

Yes they should have their own league. No they should not play in the majors, no matter how good they play.

12) How do you feel about the Silver Bullets?

They were good and the players were good, but not to play against men.

13) Briefly describe your life since your pro career ended.

My life was good, I got married and had two daughters and four grandchildren. I participated in politics for thirty four years and helped students with their history projects. I belong to the old timers baseball association.

14) What advice do you have for young women who want to become pro ballplayers?

Play hard, be competitive and have good sportsmanship.

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