The A's have lined up a backup catcher to sit on the bench and twiddle his thumbs while Jason Kendall gets his customary 140 starts. It'll be Adam Melhuse who has spent the past four years riding increasing amounts of pine as the backup backstop. For his troubles, Melhuse will get $815,000, plus a hearty handshake and meaningful eye contact every time he passes Bob Geren in the hallway.

I'm kidding about that last part, but not really. As you may recall, Ken Macha was shown the door this past fall, in large part of his icy relationship with his players. And if Melhuse's post-contract signing comments to the Associated Press are any indication, Melhuse is not the kin to forgive and forget.

I still know my position is the same, for the most part, as last year. At least I have a manager who thinks a little bit of me and will acknowledge that I'm there. I'm just preparing to be informed a little bit better. Hopefully Bob will find a time to use me.

We suggest that Ken Macha not list Adam Melhuse as a reference on his next managerial gig application. And that he speak to his next backup catcher in calm soothing words.