Jenny Cavnar, a veteran baseball broadcaster, has made history by becoming the first woman to be the primary play-by-play announcer for the Oakland Athletics. NBC Sports California announced her hiring on Tuesday, making her the first female in major league history to handle primary play-by-play duties.
Cavnar attended Coroadi State University to study and immediately fell into the role of journalism. But in something of a surprise for those getting to know her, she played lacrosse in college. However, she has since switched the stick for a microphone and is ready to continue to share her love of sports. Although this time it will be of course about baseball.
Jenny Cavnar: Impressive Background
Cavnar has an impressive background in baseball broadcasting, with 17 years of experience covering the sport. She spent the past 12 years as a backup play-by-play announcer for the Colorado Rockies, as well as hosting pregame and postgame shows and regional coverage. In 2018, she became the first woman in 25 years to handle play-by-play for an MLB game.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRK81ZH_T_I?si=bWXY2AxBxKzXD3S4]
The San Diego Padres visited the Colorado Rockies on that day. Coincidentally, the game involved the Padres team that she had been covering for approximately 5 years as a reporter and anchor.
Jenny Cavnar: Gratitude
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
Expressing her excitement about the new role, Jenny Cavnar said,
“It is a dream come true to join the broadcast team for the Oakland A’s and their rich baseball history.” She added, “Growing up the daughter of a baseball coach, I have loved the game from a young age, along with the stories, history and relationships the game provides.”
Jenny Cavnar: Promotion
Jenny Cavnar becomes the first female primary play-by-play voice in MLB history. ? pic.twitter.com/zD5dKF52hH
— MLB (@MLB) February 13, 2024
Jenny Cavnar’s promotion is seen as a significant moment for the industry, highlighting the importance of representation and diversity. Brett, a commentator, noted,
“Although Cavnar is not getting this promotion because she’s a woman, I don’t think it should go without mention that this is a big and important moment for the industry. Representation matters. Diversity matters.”
In her statement, Jenny Cavnar expressed her eagerness to start her 18th season as a major league broadcaster alongside her colleague Dallas Braden. She looks forward to sharing their experiences with the loyal fans of the Athletics. Without a doubt, they will embark on this journey together.
About Author
Jocelyn Paige Kelly is not your typical sports writer. She’s a Clarion West grad, short story writer, and poet. If you’re lucky you might catch her on Twitter tweeting as @jossome.