CLEARWATER, Fla. — In the course of two interviews for a minor league coaching job with the Phillies, Sarah Edwards impressed farm director Preston Mattingly with her perspective from a pro softball playing career that took her overseas. She demonstrated an interest in hitting instruction, a curiosity about learning new teaching techniques, and a willingness to put in long hours.
Oh, and she’s a woman.
That last detail isn’t insignificant. On the contrary, actually. Edwards, 26, got hired in January and is about to begin her rookie season as the first female on-field coach in Phillies history — and the franchise has been around since 1883.
