Jenny Cavnar Makes History as First Female MLB Play-by-Play Voice for Oakland A’s

In a groundbreaking move for Major League Baseball, Jenny Cavnar has been appointed as the first female primary play-by-play voice for the Oakland A’s, marking a historic moment in the sport’s history. Cavnar, a seasoned professional with a remarkable 18-year career, expressed her excitement for the new chapter on Twitter, saying, “Excited for the next chapter!! Let’s go!”

This historic appointment comes as a result of the departure of longtime announcer Glen Kuiper, who was let go after using a racist slur on live TV last year. The A’s and NBC Sports California made the bold decision to usher in change and break traditional norms by appointing Cavnar to take over the play-by-play duties.

Jenny Cavnar is no stranger to breaking barriers in the baseball broadcasting world. In 2018, she became the first woman in 25 years to call TV play-by-play for an MLB game. Her journey continued in 2015 when she became the first woman to provide analysis for a National League series on the radio. With a background covering the Colorado Rockies and the San Diego Padres, Cavnar brings a wealth of experience to her new role.

Her new broadcast booth partner, Dallas Braden, welcomed her with enthusiasm, stating in a video message, “I could not be more honored to sit next to the first woman in baseball history to assume the role as play-by-play announcer. It’s a great day for baseball. It’s a great day for women in baseball.”

Matt Murphy, president and general manager of NBC Sports California and NBC Sports Bay Area, praised Cavnar as a groundbreaking professional who has earned the admiration of fans and peers throughout her career. He expressed excitement for her to lead the A’s coverage starting this season.

The transition follows the departure of Glen Kuiper, who had been the voice of the A’s for 20 seasons. Kuiper left under controversial circumstances after using a racial slur during a pregame broadcast. Despite his 20-year career, he faced termination, expressing frustration over the decision.

Jenny Cavnar’s appointment adds to the growing trend of women making strides in play-by-play roles in major professional sports. In 2021, Lisa Byington became the first full-time play-by-play announcer for a major men’s professional sports team, covering the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks. Kate Scott also joined the ranks, becoming the second full-time play-by-play announcer, covering the Philadelphia 76ers for NBC Sports Philadelphia.

As Jenny Cavnar embarks on this historic journey with the Oakland A’s, her appointment signifies a significant step forward for inclusivity and diversity in the world of sports broadcasting.

In a groundbreaking move for Major League Baseball, Jenny Cavnar has been appointed as the first female primary play-by-play voice for the Oakland A’s, marking a historic moment in the sport’s history. Cavnar, a seasoned professional with a remarkable 18-year career, expressed her excitement for the new chapter on Twitter, saying, “Excited for the next…