Steel City Softball League Opens 45th Season

Photo by Jeff Freedman.

The Steel City Softball League (SCSL) officially kicked off its landmark 45th season Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Dan Isaacs Field in West Mifflin.

While the league planned to utilize two fields for opening day, Mother Nature had other ideas, rendering the second field unplayable. However, the day was saved thanks to the incredible efforts of the Mifflin Social Club staff. Their hard work ensured the main field was safe and ready for action, despite relentless rain throughout the previous night and morning.

This season, the SCSL boasts 14 registered teams competing across three divisions. Designed to accommodate various skill levels, the divisions ensure a welcoming environment for everyone from seasoned, competitive veterans to players dusting off their gloves for the first time in years.

Founded in 1981, the Steel City Softball League was created to provide a safe, inclusive, and empowering queer space for Pittsburgh’s LGBTQ+ community and allies. Forty-five years later, that mission is stronger than ever, with the league now boasting more than 200 active members.

Later this summer, athletes from the SCSL will head to Columbus, Ohio, to represent Pittsburgh on the national stage at the Gay Softball World Series.

Photos by Jeff Freedman.

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Jeff Freedman (he/him) is a Pittsburgh native celebrating his fourth decade of LGBTQ+ community volunteerism. A co-founder of the Steel City Softball League in 1981, Jeff has remained a dedicated advocate ever since. His leadership includes serving on the Pennsylvania Governor’s Advisory Commission for LGBTQ Affairs, chairing Pittsburgh Pride celebrations from 2005 to 2007, and currently serving as the Pittsburgh Pride March & Parade Co-Chair. In recognition of his lifelong dedication, Jeff was named the 2025 Pittsburgh Pride Grand Marshal. Regular parade-goers will recognize him as the enthusiastic voice on the megaphone organizing the march participants. Jeff looks forward to sharing his best stories—at least the printable ones—with the QBurgh community.