We’re proud to introduce the four managers leading the Women’s Pro Baseball League in its inaugural season, leaders whose playing and coaching careers span the major leagues, international competition, and decades of player development. Rachelle “Rocky” Henley brings a lifelong commitment to girls’ baseball and grassroots program-building to the New York Heights. Eric Young Sr. joins the Los Angeles Queens, bringing his savvy, speed-first strategy and elite baserunning instruction. Matt Williams contributes championship pedigree to the San Francisco Firebells, bringing his managerial experience, and strong local ties. Keith Foulke will deliver proven toughness and a deep background in pitching development to the Boston Hunters. Together, their experience, passion, and vision will elevate and guide the next generation of elite women ballplayers.
Los Angeles Queens: Eric Young Sr.
Eric Young Sr., a second baseman and outfielder who played for the Rockies, Cubs, Padres, Mets, Braves and Dodgers, he has built a post-playing career as a premier baserunning instructor. His aggressive, heads-up approach on the basepaths is a perfect fit for the Queens’ speed-first roster. With Young at the helm, the Queens could become a constant threat to manufacture runs and pressure opponents into mistakes. The Queens coaching staff will be rounded out by former pro Jemile Weeks, as well as Emma Charlesworth-Seiler who joins the WPBL with strong experience as a minor league umpire and youth baseball coach.
New York Heights: Rachelle “Rocky” Henley
Rachelle “Rocky” Henley founded the SF Bay Sox and has spent decades growing women’s baseball, creating playing opportunities, developing grassroots programs and mentoring the next wave of women coaches across the Bay Area. Under Henley’s guidance, the Heights could quickly establish themselves as a disciplined, fundamentally sound club capable of competing in tight games. The New York Heights assistant coaching staff will consist of former pro Stephen Larkin and young talent Jackson Henley.
San Francisco Firebells: Matt Williams
Matt Williams offers championship pedigree with five All-Star selections, four Gold Gloves and a World Series title, plus managerial experience that includes an NL Manager of the Year award and a stint in Korea with the Kia Tigers, providing diverse dugout leadership to a roster of international players. His on-field knowledge and ties to the Bay Area make him a natural fit for the Firebells. Williams’ experience could push the Firebells into serious contention, especially defensively and in late-game strategy. Williams will be joined by former minor leaguer Jeff Inglin and experienced performance analyst Sam Unger, who will serve as Assistant Coaches for the Firebells.
Boston Hunters: Keith Foulke
Keith Foulke’s postseason heroics as the 2004 Red Sox World Series winning closer cemented his reputation for toughness and grit. With a background in player development, including coaching the WPBL’s Spring Training at the Red Sox spring training home in Fort Myers, he brings a pitching-first approach and a hard-nosed style to the Hunters. That approach could take the Hunters deep into the playoffs, especially if their pitching staff delivers. Foulke will be supported by Assistant Coach Karavin Dew, who brings immense coaching experience including a stint as an Affiliate Performance Coach for the Cincinnati Reds, and Player/Coach Beth Greenwood who will help lead the Boston Hunters from behind home plate.