• Full name Clifton Randolph Pennington
  • Born 06/15/1984 in Corpus Christi, TX
  • Profile Ht.: 5'10" / Wt.: 200 / Bats: S / Throws: R
  • School Texas A&M
  • Debut 08/12/2008
  • Drafted in the 1st round (21st overall) by the Oakland Athletics in 2005 (signed for $1,475,000).
    View Draft Report
    Pennington's best attribute is his makeup, which could elevate his draft stock above his pure talent and get him picked in the upper half of the first round. Scouts have loved Pennington's grit and energy since he was in high school, and he won the Cape Cod League's 10th player award for his spirited play last summer. There's no doubt he'll squeeze every last drop out of his ability. Pennington is more than just a gamer, however, offering tools across the board. He can bat at the top of a lineup, making consistent contact and providing gap power from both sides of the plate. He doesn't have blazing speed, but he runs well and his instincts make him a threat on the bases. He led the Cape with 21 steals in 2004. Pennington's savvy also enhances his range at shortstop, where he can make both the routine and acrobatic plays. He has an above-average arm, a quick release and the ability to make throws from any angle. Pennington has gotten better and stronger each season at Texas A&M and has learned to play under control. One scout compares him to Brian Roberts (minus the 2005 power explosion), with a leaner and taller frame, more speed and a better arm. Rumors persist that if the Royals decide to save money with the No. 2 overall pick, he could be their man.

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Best Tools List

  • Rated Best Infield Arm in the Oakland Athletics in 2009
  • Rated Best Defensive Infielder in the Oakland Athletics in 2009
  • Rated Best Strike-Zone Discipline in the Oakland Athletics in 2009
  • Rated Best Infield Arm in the Oakland Athletics in 2007
  • Rated Best Infield Arm in the California League in 2006
  • Rated Best Infield Arm in the Oakland Athletics in 2006
  • Rated Best Defensive Infielder in the Oakland Athletics in 2006

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