OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 01: Manager Bob Melvin #6 of the Oakland Athletics signals the bullpen to make a pitching change against the Seattle Mariners in the top of the second inning at Oakland Alameda Coliseum on September 1, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
lessOAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 01: Manager Bob Melvin #6 of the Oakland Athletics signals the bullpen to make a pitching change against the Seattle Mariners in the top of the second inning at Oakland Alameda Coliseum
... more Photo: Thearon W. Henderson / Getty ImagesBob Melvin, who managed the A’s to a surprise playoff spot this season after three consecutive last-place finishes, was named the American League Manager of the Year by the Sporting News on Tuesday.