Position Preview: First Base

With the season closing in, F'n A takes a look at how starting position battles are shaping up. While all the competitions remain open, we'll look at projected depth charts heading into camp.

First Base

Frank Knaack* (2nd season) .667 1 2
Greg Nojeim (3) .400 0 0

Don't let the numbers fool you - first base is a position of depth for the A's entering 2007. That's a big change from 2005 and 2006. Few positions have seen as much turnover, but in the final week of 2006 the A's signed free agent Frank Knaack off the street. The team plugged him in at first and never looked back. He displayed a solid glove and a strong bat, and ended up winning the 2006 Young William 'Looking Good' Award, edging out Young William.

"Knaack Attack gives us stability at first base for the first time", said A's Manager Mitchell. "We can't wait to see the numbers he could put up with a full season of at bats."

Knaack also has the potential to be a fan favorite with his unorthodox look, featuring multiple tattoes and cut-off camo pants.

"Sounds good to me" said Knaack when first approached about getting the starting nod. "Are the mics off? Good, cause that's my f*^%ing position, I OWN it!"

Backing up Knaack is veteran Greg "Stretch" Nojeim, aka "The Noj". A great clubhouse presence, The Noj made his loudest noise last year when he beat out the Armenian Berserker in a Baklava cookoff. The Noj is a great late-inning defensive replacement, giving the A's a southpaw to really cover ground around the bag.