Ruth Elizabeth Lessing [Tex] was a female catcher who played from 1944 through 1949 in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Listed at 5 ft 5 in, 128 lb., she batted and threw right-handed. Ruth Lessing has been considered as one of the best defensive catchers in All-American Girls Professional Baseball League history. Respected for her solid skills behind home plate, including a strong and accurate arm, Lessing also was renowned for her fiery and competitive spirit. She played over 100 games during four straight seasons, was selected to the All-Star Team three consecutive years, and set several all-time, single-season records before suffering a career-ending shoulder injury that forced her to retire prematurely. Known for her fiery demeanor, she was once fined $100 for punching an umpire after he made a call she disapproved. In response, a collection taken up by fanatics netted more than $2000. She paid the fine and gave the rest of the money to charity. Lessing said she was not proud of what she had done and wrote the umpire a letter of apology. Both later became close friends. 

August 15th, 1925 in San Antonio  /  Died:   Oct 26th, 2000