Jeff Bittiger, an Athletics scout for the past 22 years, passed away on the morning of July 19 at the age of 63. Photo courtesy of the Athletics

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - We are heartbroken to share that we've lost a member of the A's family on July 19. Jeff Bittiger, a scout of ours for the past 22 years, passed away in the morning at the age of 63. 

Bittiger played parts of four seasons in the big leagues with the Phillies, Twins, and White Sox, and pitched in independent ball all the way to the age of 40. As an area scout, he signed Rookie of the Year Andrew Bailey, and he was a critical voice in many trade acquisitions over the last 10 years as a member of our Professional Scouting staff.

Thank you, Jeff, for your dedication not only to the A's organization, but to the game of baseball.

From Senior Advisor to the Managing Partner, Billy Beane

Bittiger spent his whole life around the game: playing, coaching, and scouting. He was as good a person as he was a scout, and he was a hell of a scout. He knew pitchers inside and out and you could tell how much he loved baseball just by being around him. We're all better for having been lucky enough to spend time with him at a game or in the draft room. We send our love to Alicia and the kids today as we've lost a wonderful friend and colleague.