Bob Geren: The Oakland A’s Manager Who Led Them to a 2002 Playoff Run

Bob Geren, Oakland A’s Manager Who Led Them to a 2002 Playoff Run

Bob Geren is best known for his managerial career with the Oakland Athletics, which included leading the team to a 2002 playoff run. As the team’s manager from 2007-2011, Geren experienced a relatively successful period with the Athletics, winning two division titles and making the playoffs twice. Geren’s managerial career with the Athletics was marked by his constant dedication to the team and its players. He was a leader and mentor for the team’s young players, helping to build a culture of winning in Oakland. In this article, we’ll take a look at Geren’s career as the Athletics’ manager, and what he brought to the team during his tenure.

Early Career

Bob Geren began his professional baseball career as a catcher in the minor leagues. He was signed by the New York Mets in 1981 and spent five years in their minor league system. He was traded to the San Diego Padres in 1986 and spent two seasons in their minor league system before making his Major League debut in 1988. Geren went on to play for the Padres, Houston Astros, and New York Yankees over the next five years. He retired from playing in 1993 and began his coaching career with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Becoming the Oakland A’s Manager

In 2004, Geren joined the Oakland Athletics organization as the team’s bench coach. He was promoted to manager in 2007, taking over for the retiring Ken Macha. Geren quickly earned the respect of the Athletics’ players and fans for his dedication to the team and his ability to get the most out of his players. During his tenure, Geren was able to help the team to two division titles and two playoff appearances.

2002 Playoff Run

Geren’s biggest success with the Athletics came in 2002, when he helped lead the team to a playoff run. The Athletics finished the regular season with a 103-59 record, the best in the American League. They swept the Minnesota Twins in the ALDS and then beat the New York Yankees in the ALCS before falling to the eventual World Series champion Anaheim Angels in the ALCS. It was a memorable run for the Athletics, and Geren was a key part of it.

Legacy

Bob Geren’s tenure as the Oakland Athletics manager was relatively successful. He was able to help the team to two division titles and two playoff appearances. He was also a mentor and leader for the team’s young players, helping to build a culture of winning in Oakland. Geren was not able to lead the team to a World Series title, but his legacy with the Athletics will always be remembered.

Conclusion

Bob Geren was an underrated but important figure in the Oakland Athletics organization. He was able to lead the team to a successful playoff run in 2002 and was a mentor and leader for the team’s young players. Geren will always be remembered for his dedication to the Athletics and his ability to get the most out of his players. To learn more about Bob Geren and his career with the Athletics, visit Youngruns.com.