MESA, Ariz. — Cliff Pennington might be competing for a spot on the A’s opening day roster this spring, but that doesn’t mean he’s keeping his wealth of knowledge to himself.
In bringing Pennington back to Oakland on a minor league deal, the A’s have a mentor for their many young players in camp. Chief among those who stand to gain a lot from Pennington’s presence is Chad Pinder.
Pennington, 34, has carved out a nice 11-year big league career for himself has a true utility man. It’s a role the A’s have been grooming Pinder into over the past couple of years, especially last season when he played every single position at some point besides pitcher and catcher.