by Sports Xchange

Another indication: The same day Bailey won rookie honors, A's farm director Keith Lieppman was given the Sheldon "Chief" Bender Award for his distinguished service in player development.

Oakland has produced three Rookies of the Year in the past six seasons, and seven in the past 23 years. Some of that is the result of the A's marketplace realities; as the second team in the market and with a lower payroll than most big-league clubs, Oakland regularly requires an influx of less expensive young players, and the team's inability to sign high-priced free agents and, many times, to retain its own free agents, makes for more opportunities for youngsters.

Right now, the A's are in a full-scale rebuilding effort, as evidenced by a rotation last year that had no starter older than 25 most of the way. Left-hander Brett Anderson, who emerged as Oakland's top starter by the end of the season, finished sixth in the rookie voting.

Bailey, though, is the best poster boy for the A's drafting and development. Scout Jeff Bittiger's strong recommendation convinced Oakland to take Bailey in the sixth round in 2006, and when Bailey stalled as a starter at Class AA Midland, Lieppman was among those who supported a move to the bullpen.

Relief is a very strong spot for the A's, and there is more on the way; Brad Kilby impressed in a September call-up. With Joey Devine returning from elbow surgery next season, expect that if Oakland swings a deal for a young third baseman or a shortstop, relief will be a primary component going the other way, with Brad Ziegler and possibly even top setup man Michael Wuertz dangled as bait.