Oakland A’s legend Keith Lieppman retires

Although players may come and go with the Oakland A’s, that is not the case with the front office. Take long time coach and executive Keith Lieppman as an example.

He had spent 52 years with the organization, significantly impacting the A’s fortunes as he was their director of player development for most of his tenure. Now, after having taken a step back over the past few years, Lieppman has announced his retirement.

Keith Lieppman leaves impressive legacy with Oakland A’s behind

A second round selection by the A’s in the 1971 MLB Draft, he quickly rose through the ranks, reaching Triple-A in 1973. That was ultimately where his playing career topped out, as he spent six years at the highest level of the minors without ever making his major league debut.

However, the A’s clearly valued what he brought to the organization. Lieppman transitioned into a coaching role, managing various minor league affiliates from 1980 through 1987. In that role, he had a direct impact upon the A’s run of success in the latter part of the 1980s and into the 1990s, helping groom the next wave of star youngsters.

He took that task to the next level after his coaching career. Lieppman served as the A’s director of instruction before becoming their director of player development in 1992. He stayed in that role until 2020, passing the torch to Ed Sprague Jr., who he has helped develop and nurture into that position.

And now, it is time for his next journey in life. Lieppman is stepping away, able to relax with the knowledge that he made a significant impact on the lives of hundreds of players in the A’s system. His presence will be felt for years to come.

Oakland A’s lifer Keith Lieppman has announced his retirement. We wish him all the best as he enjoys a well deserved rest.