Chad Pinder showing value to A's with his versatility

Share

You never know where you might find Chad Pinder in the field.

The 26-year-old has started games at second base, third base, shortstop, left field, center field, and right field this season.

“I like it,” Pinder said. “It's fun. You just do the work. You go out and take ground balls if you're playing second, take balls in the outfield if you're playing the outfield. I enjoy it.”

Pinder takes pride not only in playing multiple positions, but playing them all well. He has committed just four errors in 47 games this season, while leading the A's with three outfield assists.

“There are certain things we can do because I can play multiple positions,” Pinder said. “I like being able to help the team that way.”

“He's been extremely versatile for us,” added A's manager Bob Melvin. “I don't think I'd put him on the mound, but everything else is open for him.”

For what it's worth, Pinder says there is no position he can't play, including catcher.

“I love catching,” he smiled. “That was one of my main positions growing up.”

Pinder estimates he last played catcher in eighth or ninth grade, but believes he could serve as an emergency catcher for the A's.

“I'd like to think that I am. We'll see if that ever pops up,” Pinder said.

With all the injuries the A's have suffered this season, Pinder's versatility has been extremely valuable. He has contributed with the bat as well, slashing .246/.325/.442 with six home runs and 14 RBI. In Saturday's win against the Angels, Pinder nearly hit for the cycle, going 3-for-3 with a home run, triple, and single.

“When he gets on a roll, he's as productive as anybody we have,” Melvin said. “You look at exit velocities and so forth, when he squares one up, it's as good as anybody on our team.”

Contact Us