BREAKING NEWS: Jenny Cavnar becomes Oakland A’s announcer, breaks MLB glass ceiling
In a groundbreaking move, the Oakland Athletics have appointed Jenny Cavnar as their new lead play-by-play announcer, marking a historic moment in Major League Baseball as the first woman to assume this role.
NBC Sports California revealed on Tuesday that Cavnar will be the primary voice for the majority of A’s games in the upcoming 2024 season. With over a decade of experience as the Colorado Rockies’ backup play-by-play announcer and an Emmy Award to her name, Cavnar brings a wealth of expertise to her new position.
Her extensive career spans coverage of various sports, including reporting on the San Diego Padres and providing play-by-play commentary for both men’s and women’s college basketball. Cavnar has also made significant strides in breaking gender barriers in sports broadcasting. In 2018, she became the first woman in 25 years to announce play-by-play for an MLB game on television and, in 2015, she was the first woman to provide radio analysis for a National League series. Moreover, she was honored as the Colorado Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sports Media Association in 2021.
Expressing her excitement for this new chapter in her career, Cavnar stated, “It is a dream come true to join the broadcast team for the Oakland A’s and their rich baseball history.” She looks forward to sharing her passion for the game and her experiences with the loyal fans of the Athletics.
Former A’s pitcher and commentator Dallas Braden enthusiastically welcomed Cavnar to the team, emphasizing her extensive knowledge and energy. He celebrated the historic significance of her appointment, expressing his honor to work alongside the first woman in baseball history to assume the role of play-by-play announcer.
In response, Cavnar expressed her gratitude to Braden and looked forward to collaborating with him, stating, “Thanks for the warm welcome. Can’t wait to get to the Town!”
Let’s go, partner!! Thanks for the warm welcome. Can’t wait to get to the Town! https://t.co/Eu2o55XMuz
— Jenny Cavnar (@jennycavnar) February 13, 2024