Bob Melvin's connection to the Athletics is a story of passion and legacy. Growing up, Melvin was a regular at the Coliseum, cheering for his idol, Sal Bando, during the iconic era of the Swingin’ A’s in the 1970s. His journey with the team didn't stop there; from 2011 to 2021, Melvin became one of the franchise’s most successful managers, leaving an indelible mark on the organization.
Now, after a five-year hiatus from the A's, Melvin is back with the team, stepping into a new role as a special assistant in baseball operations. Announced on Thursday, this position will see him advising the front office on various baseball matters, bringing his wealth of experience back to the green and gold.
With 853 wins under his belt as an A's manager, Melvin ranks second only to the legendary Connie Mack, who amassed an astounding 3,582 wins with the Philadelphia Athletics from 1901 to 1950. Melvin's decade-long tenure with the team was marked by six playoff appearances, including three American League West titles and three AL Wild Card berths, earning him two Manager of the Year Awards.
After his successful stint with the A's, Melvin went on to manage the Padres from 2022 to 2023 and the Giants from 2024 to 2025. His managerial record stands at 1,678-1,588 over 22 seasons, a testament to his enduring impact on the game. Notably, he also clinched a Manager of the Year title with the D-backs in 2007.
Melvin's return to the Athletics is more than just a homecoming; it's a reunion with a franchise that he helped shape, and his insights are sure to be invaluable as the team looks to build on its storied history.