The Athletics’ rebuilding process kicked off with a new manager ahead of the 2022 MLB season.
Longtime skipper Bob Melvin departed for San Diego after more than a decade in the Bay to become manager of the Padres.
The A’s decided to promote within the organization, with former outfielder and third base coach Mark Kotsay taking over.
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Since then, things have been a bit different in the clubhouse.
A’s infielder Jed Lowrie, who has spent half of his MLB career in Oakland over three separate stints, spoke to NBC Sports California's Jim Kozimor about some of the differences between being managed by Melvin as opposed to Kotsay.
“Kotsay’s the same type of guy he was as a player,” Lowrie said. “As a manager, I think he gets his feet wet. He’s very confident in what he’s doing, very high energy.”
As for Melvin?
“Bo Mel, I would say, just a little bit more, I don’t know if stoic is the right word, but just a different energy level,” Lowrie said. “Both definitely have their strengths.”
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During his playing years, Kotsay became a quick fan favorite in Oakland for the four seasons (2004-07) he sported green and gold.
From fan-favorite to respected coach and mentor, Kotsay’s hire didn’t come as a surprise.
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And Melvin’s 10-year tenure as manager of the A’s spoke for itself. By the end of his time in the Bay, his 853 wins were second-most in team history.
For now, Kotsay, Lowrie and the rest of the A’s are ready for what’s to come as their reshaping continues.