USA Softball Region 9

Although she started her softball career as an outfielder, it would be as a pitcher that would eventually lead Betty Evans Grayson into the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame. She started as an outfielder in the Portland City League and by 13 had pitched a little in grade school. Her manager, Erv Lind, however, felt Betty could become a great pitcher. So with the help of Betty’s father, Raymond Evans, and two former pitchers, Eddie Jossi and Archie “Windmill” Hamlin, Betty pitched and pitched. Betty played in the outfield for the Florists the summer of 1940. That would be her last year in the outfield. At the end of the season, Erv told Betty, “From now on you’re going to be throwing for us.” Named all-city in 1941 and 1942, Betty pitched in her first of six ASA nationals championships in 1943. In 1944, she hurled the Lind and Pomeroy team to the ASA national title. She also was named as Oregon Woman Athlete of the Year by the Oregon Sportswriters and Broadcasters Association. She compiled a 456-99 record with 51 no-hitters and three perfect games. Betty died July 7, 1979 at age 53, a victim of cancer. She was inducted into the National Hall of Fame in 1959.