Cliff Pennington

Cliff Pennington returned to action on Friday April 6.

A’s shortstop Cliff Pennington has been dropped to the ninth spot in Friday’s lineup vs. the Mariners.

Pennington had hit second in each of the team’s first two games in Japan last week. Manager Bob Melvin said that Pennington hadn’t done anything wrong to be moved down in the order, but he wants to keep him near fellow speedsters Jemile Weeks and Coco Crisp. Pay attention to this situation, as Pennington definitely loses fantasy value should this move become permanent.

Cliff Pennington (groin) feels better, but likely won’t play again until Friday against the Mariners.

Pennington was pulled from Monday’s Cactus League game due to left groin soreness. It’s doubtful we’ll see him in Wednesday’s exhibition finale, but should be ready to go when the season resumes Friday.

Athletics manager Bob Melvin said that he may hold Cliff Pennington (groin) out of Tuesday’s exhibition game against the Giants.

Pennington tweaked his left groin during warmups Monday and was pulled from the game early. It doesn’t sound serious, but Melvin wants to see how he feels before saying he’ll be in the lineup for the A’s home opener Friday against the Mariners.

Cliff Pennington left Monday’s Cactus League game against the Giants with left groin soreness.

The severity of the injury isn’t yet known. Eric Sogard, who socked a two-run homer as his replacement, would likely start at shortstop if he needs to miss an extended period of time.

Cliff Pennington went 4-for-4 with two singles, two doubles and two RBI Thursday against the Rangers.

He also walked, reaching base in all five trips to the plate. Pennington has had a hot bat this spring, as he’s now hit safely in eight straight games and sports a .464 batting mark. Let us remind you, though, that he’s coming off a year where he hit just .264/.319/.369.