Alyssa Nakken Becomes the First Woman to Coach On-Field in the MLB

Photo Credit - SF Giants/Twitter

History has been made as Alyssa Nakken becomes the first female to coach on the field during an MLB game. As an Assistant Coach, Nakken was given the opportunity to coach first base during the Giants vs. A's Exhibition Game on July 20th. Not only was this moment historic, but Nakken was also the first the women to be hired to any coaching staff league-wide when the Giants signed her in January 2020.

Playing softball throughout high school and college, Nakken is a natural on the diamond. In 2014, she was an intern with the Giants, and now she is full-time on the coaching staff.

“I feel a great sense of responsibility,” Nakken said in February. “Coaching, I never saw it. This job has kind of been hidden for so long. I'm so excited to be in this role for the challenge and the opportunity to make an impact for this organization that I love. But also, I'm excited that now girls can see there is a job on the field in baseball. It's really cool.” (via MLB.com)

I, for one, am thrilled to see this history being made! This is just the start of women breaking barriers within the MLB. Seeing women working hard and assuming coaching roles is integral in continuing the fight for gender equality in sports. I'm so inspired by Nakken, and I can't wait to see what she does this season!