Cliff Pennington, a 11‑year Major League Baseball veteran and member of the Texas A&M Athletics Hall of Fame, has accepted an assistant coaching position with the Texas A&M baseball program. The announcement was made by head coach Jim Schlossnagle, who highlighted Pennington’s deep ties to the university and his proven ability to develop talent both on and off the field.
A Storied Playing Career
Pennington’s professional journey began when the Oakland Athletics selected him in the first round of the 2005 draft. Over the next decade he played for five clubs — including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Angels and Cincinnati Reds — compiling a .277 career average, 678 hits, 121 doubles, 21 triples, 36 home runs and 84 stolen bases. He was also the first position player to pitch in a postseason game, a testament to his versatility.
Recent Success at Dallas Baptist
During his four seasons as recruiting coordinator and assistant coach at Dallas Baptist University, Pennington helped the Patriots post a 167‑73‑1 record, capture two Conference USA regular‑season titles and make four NCAA Regional appearances. He contributed to three All‑Americans and three conference Freshman of the Year honorees, while the team’s offense ranked among the nation’s most potent.
A New Chapter in College Station
At Texas A&M, Pennington will work alongside head coach Jim Schlossnagle and fellow assistants Michael Earley, Grant Jay, Ryan Johnson, Ethan Mann and Luke Heefner. His responsibilities include player development, base‑running instruction and infield coaching. Athletic director Ross Bjork praised Pennington’s “exceptional baseball IQ” and his ability to attract top talent, noting that his addition strengthens an already deep coaching staff.
Pennington and his wife Missy are parents to three children — Brady, Hudson and Kinsley — who will now call College Station home. The family’s presence is expected to deepen community ties and provide a familiar face for recruits seeking a program with a winning culture.