Oakland Athletics
In 2004, his first full season, he took over the Athletics' shortstop duties from 2002 American League Most Valuable Player Miguel Tejada, who signed with the Baltimore Orioles as a free agent. That year, Crosby hit .239 with 22 home runs and 64 RBIs. He also led American League rookies in hits (130), doubles (34) and walks (58). These numbers earned Crosby Rookie of the Year honors, the sixth Athletics player to do so after Harry Byrd (1952), José Canseco (1986), Mark McGwire (1987), Walt Weiss (1988), and Ben Grieve (1998).
In addition to becoming the sixth Athletics player to be named Rookie of the Year, he was the second shortstop in a row to win the award (after Angel Berroa of the Kansas City Royals). He was also the eighth shortstop in 22 seasons to earn top rookie honors, the others being Cal Ripken, Jr. (1982), Ozzie Guillén (1985), Walt Weiss (1988), Pat Listach (1992), Derek Jeter (1996), Nomar Garciaparra (1997), and Berroa (2003).
Crosby was just a vote shy of being a unanimous pick, despite his batting average being the lowest ever for a Rookie of the Year. He also struck out 141 times, fourth-most in the AL, and the team's most since Canseco had 152 in 1991.
Crosby and the Oakland Athletics agreed to a five-year, $12.75 million contract on April 22, 2005.
Due to the signing of free agent shortstop Orlando Cabrera prior to the 2009 season, Crosby was moved into a utility infielder role. However, with injuries to everyday second baseman Mark Ellis, third baseman Eric Chavez and infielder Nomar Garciaparra (another free agent signing), Crosby was expected to see significant starting roles at third base, as well as at second base.
Mark McGwire has served as his hitting coach since the 2009 offseason.
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