Rocky Henley Becomes First Female Manager in New Women’s Professional Baseball League

The Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL) launched its inaugural season on August 1 at Robin Roberts Stadium in Springfield, Illinois. Four teams representing San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York and Boston will each play a 15‑game schedule, all staged in Springfield.

Rocky Henley, a former player for the Colorado Silver Bullets and founder of the San Francisco Bay Sox, was appointed manager of the New York Heights squad, making her the league’s first female manager and the only woman among four managers. Henley’s hiring was highlighted by league commissioner Justine Siegal and praised by players, who described her as inspiring and positive. The opening game was sold out, reflecting growing interest in women’s baseball.

Henley said the role is a “dream come true,” noting the historic nature of the opportunity and the chance to show young athletes what is possible in the sport.