WORCESTER, Mass. — Even though the July 17 Worcester Red Sox game was rained out with an almost two-hour delay due to thunder, lightning and pouring rain, the triple-A team was still able to celebrate and honor “Women in Baseball Day” at Polar Park.

The WooSox welcomed All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) players Maybelle Blair and Shirley Burkovich, who made their mark on the sport in the 1940s and 50s.

“Anything regarding women’s baseball, I’m concerned about,” Burkovich said. “I’m very passionate about having women participate now, and in baseball we’re trying to get back.”

The AAGPBL, which existed from 1943 to 1954, became more famous after the 1992 movie, “A League of Their Own,” which starred Madonna, Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Rosie O’Donnell and Lori Petty. Madonna portrayed Blair, who was a pitcher for the Peoria Redwings in real life, but portrayed in the movie as a center fielder for the Rockford Peaches.

“I wanted to see this ballpark in the worst way,” Blair said. “This is wonderful…I am absolutely thrilled to be here.”

Burkovich, who was nicknamed “Hustle,” played all positions on the field except for catcher. She was in the league for three seasons. Burkovich joined the AAGPBL while she was still in high school.

The dynamic duo continue to advocate for women’s rights to have a chance to play baseball. They want girls to have the same opportunities as boys and be able to choose between baseball and softball.

Seeing younger generation of girls at the game was a highlight for the women.

“That’s what we want,” Burkovich said. “Start them young, just like the boys do, like with the Little League. Bring them up.”

Ten of the Worcester Rockets 14U softball players announced “play ball” to the stadium.

Worcester Rockets 14U softball players. Photo by Monica Sager.

“It feels so good to be here with my team, especially to celebrate [this day] with [the women],” Sophia Moriarty said. “Playing softball is my favorite thing to do.”

Burkovich and Blair got the chance to throw the ball to WooSox players before the game was rained out.

“It felt amazing,” Burkovich said, adding that she has a bad leg and was surprised that she was able to throw so well. “I throw like a girl,” she said.

The WooSox game been rescheduled for August 17.