Oakland Athletics hire MLB’s first-EVER female play-by-play commentator with Jenny Cavnar taking over the mic for the upcoming season

NBC Sports California hired Jenny Cavnar as the main play-by-play announcer for their Oakland Athletics coverage, making her the first woman to hold the position in MLB history.

With over 17 years of baseball experience, the network announced Cavnar’s hiring on Tuesday, as she will call the majority of A’s games this upcoming season.

For the past twelve years, Cavnar has been on the field as a backup play-by-play announcer, pregame and postgame host and reporter for regional TV coverage of the Colorado Rockies. She also previously worked as a reporter and anchor for the San Diego Padres.

“It’s a dream come true to be a part of the Oakland A’s broadcast team and their rich baseball history,” Cavnar said. “As the daughter of a baseball coach, I have loved the game since a young age, along with the stories, history and relationships it provides.

“I’m excited to begin my 18th season as a Major League broadcaster with my good friend, Dallas Braden, and share our experiences with the Athletic’s loyal fans as we go on this ride together.”

Cavnar will be the play-by-play voice of NBC’s athletics coverage starting next season

Cavnar is entering her 18th season as an MLB reporter after working with the Rockies and Padres

In 2015, Cavnar became the first woman to provide analysis for a National League series on radio. Three years later in Denver, she became the first woman in a quarter century to call TV play-by-play for an MLB game.

In addition, Cavnar is a regular contributor to MLB Network Radio on Sirius XM during the regular season and playoffs.

Outside of baseball, Cavnar covered various sports as a reporter and anchor. She covered the Anaheim Ducks in the NHL, co-hosted an Olympic Games show and worked as a sideline reporter and show contributor for San Diego State Athletics. She also called men’s and women’s college basketball for the FS1 and Pac 12 networks.

Cavnar’s work has earned her five Emmy Awards and made her the first woman to be named Colorado Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sports Media Association in 2021.

“Jenny is a very talented broadcaster with significant experience in baseball,” said Matt Murphy, president and general manager of NBC Sports California and NBC Sports Bay Area.

“She has been a trailblazing professional who has earned the admiration of fans and colleagues throughout her career. We are very pleased that she will join our excellent team and will lead our A-coverage from this season onwards.’