Full Breakdown
Rachel Folden: Pioneering Change as the Mets' New Hitting Coach
3/3/2026, 6:16:32 AM
Introduction to Rachel Folden's Role
Rachel Folden has recently joined the New York Mets as their Double-A hitting coach for the Binghamton Rumble Ponies, marking a significant moment in the landscape of baseball coaching. At 39 years old, Folden brings a wealth of experience from her previous six seasons with the Chicago Cubs organization, where she advanced from a lead hitting lab technician to the hitting coach for the Triple-A Iowa affiliate. Her hiring comes at a time when female representation in coaching roles remains limited, with Alyssa Nakken being the only woman to hold an on-field coaching position in Major League Baseball.
Background and Career Path
Folden's journey into baseball coaching began after a successful collegiate career as a catcher at Marshall University and a stint in professional softball. Initially uncertain about her future in coaching, she found her passion for the game and has since dedicated herself to developing players. “I love coaching full-time,” Folden stated, emphasizing the limited opportunities in college coaching that do not involve recruiting.
Impact on Players and Team Dynamics
Since her arrival, Folden has made a positive impression on younger Mets players, including top outfield prospect A.J. Ewing, who noted their shared understanding of hitting and her effective communication style. Folden believes that success in coaching transcends gender, stating, “If a player thinks you can help them, it doesn’t matter who you are.” This sentiment reflects her approach to building relationships and trust with players, which she views as essential to her role.
Challenges in a Male-Dominated Field
Despite her acceptance among players, Folden acknowledges the skepticism that can accompany a woman entering a male-dominated environment. She credits Rachel Balkovec, the director of player development for the Miami Marlins, for paving the way for women in baseball coaching. Folden remarked on the importance of creating a comfortable atmosphere for both female coaches and players, recognizing the challenges that come with breaking traditional barriers.
Official Support and Future Aspirations
David Stearns, the Mets' president of baseball operations, emphasized that Folden was hired based on her coaching abilities rather than to make a statement about gender diversity. He noted that women in various roles within baseball are becoming more common, and expressed a desire for the day when having a female coach is no longer considered newsworthy. Folden herself remains open to opportunities in the major leagues but is currently focused on her role in the minors, stating, “I just really love working in baseball.”
Conclusion
Rachel Folden's appointment as the Mets' Double-A hitting coach represents a step forward in the inclusion of women in baseball coaching roles. Her commitment to player development and her ability to foster relationships within the team highlight her potential impact on the sport. As she continues to navigate her career, Folden's journey may inspire future generations of female coaches in baseball.
