Merle Keagle

A three-time All-American and a top box-office attraction, she was one of the most colorful players in women’s softball and starred for the five- time national champion Phoenix A-1 Queens as well as in professional leagues. In 1944-46, she was voted the No. 1 outfielder in women’s professional softball. She twice played key roles in national championships for the Queens and helped the Funk Gems to the 1950 national crown. She was lacking in no area of the game, her swiftness on the base paths, her strong throwing arm and her ever-dangerous batting prowess setting her apart from the others. From Tolleson, her major league career began with the A-1 Queens in 1949.