Oakland A’s: Stephen Vogt looking to follow in Bob Melvin’s footsteps

Former Oakland A’s catcher Stephen Vogt is looking to his future when his playing career winds down, and may want to follow in Bob Melvin’s footsteps.

Stephen Vogt quickly became a fan favorite during his time with the Oakland A’s. A hardluck player who was the only player to make an Opening Day roster in 2007 and not get a single hit, Vogt became beloved for his perseverance and steady presence in the lineup.

Vogt gained more than the admiration and respect of the fanbase. He spent his time with the A’s learning from manager Bob Melvin, a former catcher himself. Vogt still keeps in touch with his former manager, someone who he considers a mentor.

That relationship extends beyond the dugout and their friendship. In an interview with NBCSports.com, Vogt stated that he wanted to follow in Melvin’s footsteps when he concludes his playing career, becoming a manager himself.

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Although Vogt is 35 years old, the end is not necessarily in sight. He signed a one year deal with the Diamondbacks this offseason, with a team option for 2021. Vogt had a productive 2019 as he came back from shoulder surgery that sidelined him for the 2018 season, producing a .263/.314/.490 batting line, hitting ten homers and 24 doubles in 280 plate appearances.

In Arizona, Vogt would presumably be the backup to Carson Kelly. However, given that Kelly is still relatively unproven, having someone with Vogt’s track record as an option is certainly beneficial. Meanwhile, Vogt could learn from another highly regarded baseball mind in Torey Luvullo.

Catchers tend to find themselves as coaches or managers after their playing days, with their leadership, experience handling a pitching staff, and ability to see the entire game being valued. Vogt checks all those boxes, and with the mentorship he has with Melvin, his future appears to be set.

Former Oakland A’s catcher Stephen Vogt wants to follow in Bob Melvin’s footsteps. It would not be a surprise to see him return to the organization at some point, possibly as a coach or minor league manager.