Miami Marlins hire Kim Ng as first female general manager in baseball history

MLB’s senior vice president of baseball operations becomes first Asian American to get a top job in the sport

Miami Marlins hire Kim Ng as baseball’s first female GM (AP)

The Miami Marlins have hired Kim Ng as baseball’s first female general manager.

Ms Ng, 51, is believed to be the first female top executive in US men’s professional sport and also becomes the first Asian American to hold the position in baseball.

Ms Ng had been Major League Baseball’s senior vice president of baseball operations for the past nine years.

She had previously worked as an assistant general manager for the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers.

"On behalf of Principal Owner Bruce Sherman and our entire ownership group, we look forward to Kim bringing a wealth of knowledge and championship-level experience to the Miami Marlins," said Marlins CEO Derek Jeter.

"Her leadership of our baseball operations team will play a major role on our path toward sustained success.

“Additionally, her extensive work in expanding youth baseball and softball initiatives will enhance our efforts to grow the game among our local youth as we continue to make a positive impact on the South Florida community.”

Ms Ng will be the most powerful female executive in baseball and ESPN says she is believed to be the first woman to get the position at a professional men’s team in American sports.

"I entered Major League Baseball as an intern and, after decades of determination, it is the honour of my career to lead the Miami Marlins as their next General Manager," said Ms Ng.

"We are building for the long term in South Florida, developing a forward-thinking, collaborative, creative baseball operation made up of incredibly talented and dedicated staff who have, over the last few years, laid a great foundation for success.

"This challenge is one I don't take lightly.

“When I got into this business, it seemed unlikely a woman would lead a Major League team, but I am dogged in the pursuit of my goals.

“My goal is now to bring Championship baseball to Miami. I am both humbled and eager to continue building the winning culture our fans expect and deserve."