Former second-round draft pick, No. 4 prospect, and Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Roman Quinn has taken up coaching softball in his hometown.
Quinn was a promising prospect during his time in the minors, most notable for his speed. Despite an Achilles injury back in 2013, Quinn was given an 80 speed, the highest grade on the baseball scouting scale. Quinn later faced his ups and downs as an outfielder for the Philadelphia Phillies, unfortunately battling other injuries during his career.
Despite his struggle with injures, Quinn was often able to provide the Phillies with the spark the team sought at the time. Looking back at the Phillies' 2018 season, the team sometimes utilized Quinn as a leadoff hitter, though he more frequently was a boost of energy at ninth. He put up some quality at-bats throughout July and August, batting .362, and often utilized his speed to steal bases.
Retired ex-Phillies outfielder Roman Quinn takes up heartwarming coaching gig
In his recent interview with WMBB News 13's Kaleigh Tingelstad, Quinn reflected on his time playing in Philadelphia. He wishes he would’ve enjoyed his time in the Major Leagues more despite the injuries he battled throughout his career, though he is thankful for the opportunities he had coming from the small town of Port St. Joe.
“It was a grind mentally and physically,” Quinn said, per Tingelstad. “I had a couple of injuries that I dealt with throughout my career. I wish I would have enjoyed it just a little bit more. But I’m thankful for the opportunities that I did have.”
Here is the full segment from @WMBBTV where Quinn discusses his playing career and his new coaching job. pic.twitter.com/VFRR63mCen
— Phillies Tailgate (@PhilsTailgate) December 26, 2024
Quinn retired in September of 2023, and has been spending quality time with his family.
Quinn's daughter took inspiration from her father's passion for baseball, and decided to join the Port St. Joe Angels softball team with her father as her coach
With Quinn as coach of the Port St. Joe Angels, the softball team won their first state title and will be traveling for the Dixie World Series. The young athletes on the Angels give Quinn and his experience in the MLB credit for their season’s success.
Quinn’s coaching style is "rooted in motivation," and the former outfielder simply hopes to create the best experience possible for the young athletes he coaches.
“I’m excited for these girls,” Quinn said, per Tingelstad. “I’m glad that they have the opportunity to do something that not too many kids get to experience.”