For most major leaguers, mastery of a position takes a lifetime. Whether it’s catching pop flies in the outfield or digging up grounders in the infield, each role demands constant attention and practice.
For Oakland A’s utility man Chad Pinder, one position just isn’t enough.
“I love playing second base, I love playing right field,” Pinder said. “But ultimately, just being able to be out there, contribute to wins, contribute to the team, so any role is a role for me, so I’m in for anything.”
The jack-of-all-trades player has emerged as an essential part of the squad, using his versatility and experience in all areas of the field to fill in wherever A’s manager Bob Melvin needs him.