MESA, Ariz. — Rickey Henderson’s annual spring residency with the A’s surely will include some time spent with leadoff man Billy Burns.
Henderson, who joined the team Sunday and will spend eight days in Arizona, has worked closely with Oakland’s speedy center fielder in the past. He complimented Burns’ play during an impressive rookie season but he also sees room for improvement in Burns’ base-stealing abilities.
“I still think he should be able to get better,” Henderson said. “I’m just a little concerned about his take-off. … I want him to improve that take-off, and then I think he’ll be untouchable on the base paths.