MESA, Ariz. — The “School of Wash” remains in session, even as its professor has moved on to another team.
A’s shortstop Marcus Semien and corner infielder Ryon Healy continue to put in the extra time on the defensive fundamental drills passed down to them from former Oakland infield coach Ron Washington, who joined the Atlanta Braves’ staff over the winter.
Semien and Healy were two of the most dedicated pupils when it came to the pregame sessions Washington ran his infielders through. Now, new A’s third baseman Trevor Plouffe has caught the bug.
The three of them occupy a patch of grass near home plate at Hohokam Stadium, form a triangle about 15 feet apart from each other, and, while on their knees, roll grounders back and forth, fielding them with their bare hands.