WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. — It is the goal of many college baseball players to go pro. Beth Greenwood made history in 2021 when she became the first woman to play catcher in an NCAA men’s game while at the University of Rochester. She’s now taking her talents to the next level.
As the Hudson Valley Renegades warmed up for a game against Jersey Shore, the visiting BlueClaws stretched out, waiting for their turn in the batting cage. And Beth Greenwood did some pre-game prep of her own, in a position she’s fought hard for.
“For me, I've been around the game a long time,” said Greenwood. “And I've been coaching just on the youth side for a while.”
In a game traditionally dominated by men, Greenwood is making history as the only female on-field staff member in the Philadelphia Phillies organization. Greenwood is a minor league development coach, working mainly with catchers. She’s right at home behind the plate.
“About a year ago, I didn't even know that this was what I wanted to be doing,” she said. “And I think that it's kind of funny how things work out. I think other people kind of knew before me.”
Two years ago, we met Beth after she made history as the first woman to catch a game for a men’s NCAA baseball team, playing at the University of Rochester, where she was a mechanical engineering major.
“I think that my playing experience in college, and the route that I took with not being on the roster and then finally kind of chipping away and just not giving up on it, I think was a big part in giving me the opportunity to be here,” said Greenwood.
After graduation, a fellowship with the Phillies doing research and development eventually turned into an on-field role.
“And that's when I realized that I didn't want to be stuck behind a computer, and that I definitely needed to be out on the field,” she said. “And that's where I belong.“
Baseball is a game of tradition, and women have traditionally been left out. Growing up, and even when she entered college, coaches suggested she play softball instead. But baseball has always been Greenwood’s love.
“To me, I felt like I've dealt with my entire life,” she said. “I grew up playing baseball. I was always the only one. I was the only girl, whether it was in middle school or high school or college.
During games, Greenwood tracks players' tendencies, strengths and weaknesses and works with catchers to relay that information. It's a place two years ago she never imagined she’d be.
“We'll be at our game and I'm in the dugout talking to a player, writing something down and I just realize like, I'm looking at the stands and I'm like, 'Wow. Who would have thought?'” said Greenwood. “It's just kind of crazy.”
Greenwood sees a future in the game she loves. She's a Red Sox fan who grew up in New Hampshire, who now hopes to inspire the girls she sees in the stands to follow their dreams.
“I think it’s just pretty awesome to know that they're seeing that as, oh maybe that's something I can do some day,” she said. “And I think that's pretty special.”