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“Can Die Now”: New York Yankees Manager Rachel Balkovec Was Left Star-Struck After Receiving Billie Jean King’s Message

Published 01/13/2022, 11:53 AM EST

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Rachel Balkovec has taken over the headlines in the American baseball world with her incredible achievement. Creating history with the New York Yankees, Balkovec became the first-ever female manager for a minor league team.

Expectedly, the Yankees’ new manager garnered praise from all around. However, the one wish that stood out from all came from tennis icon Billie Jean King.

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Rachel had a huge fan moment after Billie Jean King texted her

Overcoming the barriers in a male dominant sport, Rachel Balkovec has become an inspiration for women. She officially became the New York Yankees minor league manager this week.

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After receiving a plethora of wishes, Rachel revealed she also received a personal message from the legend herself, Billie Jean King. Notably, Billie is known for her stellar tennis career and for her contributions to society.

Speaking of the text she received from Billie, Rachel said, “Okay, I can die now. My career’s over.”

“Product of the Women Who Have Come Before Me”: New York Yankees’ Rachel Balkovec Dedicates Her Success to Women in Sports

Rachel opens up about the changes in the perspective for women in baseball

Rachel also talked about the significant changes she has seen in how women are treated in the sport. “The way that people react to me and the way that they talk to me, it’s becoming more normal. It’s pretty apparent & it’s just exciting to see how much progress we’ve made,” Rachel said.

She further talked about the hardships she’s faced. ”We definitely have a lot of room to grow. But it’s really exciting. There were many times in my career where I felt extremely lonely & I literally didn’t have anyone to call who I’ve been going through the same experiences.”

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Women like Billie Jean King and Rachel are change-makers in the sporting world. Their heroics have paved the way for many other women in the business. It’s also commendable how these iconic women take out the time to appreciate each other.

Are you looking forward to Rachel in her role with the pinstripes?

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Written by:

Shreya Verma

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Shreya Verma is a US Sports writer at EssentiallySports. A post-graduation student in political science, Shreya is also a professional 10m air pistol shooter. Taking after her athlete father, she was naturally inclined towards the athletic life.
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