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Pitching prospect Huggins growing his game with the help of this A's Hall of Famer

Athletics pitching prospect Kenya Huggins, traded from the Reds to the A's at the 2025 deadline, found an unexpected mentor in Hall of Famer Dave Stewart. The two connected after Huggins initially had no idea who Stewart was, despite receiving a signed card with instructions to seek him out.

Their bond formed during a bullpen session in Arizona, where Stewart noticed Huggins’ size 15 shoes and struck up a conversation. Now, the 23-year-old refers to Stewart as 'Uncle Stew,' while Stewart treats him as part of his extended family, offering guidance both on and off the field.

The relationship mirrors Stewart’s own mentorship from legends like Bob Gibson, Sandy Koufax, and Don Newcombe, whom he credits with shaping his career. Huggins, ranked as the A's No.

23 prospect, values the daily advice and has embraced the responsibility of learning from a pitcher who won three World Series titles. Their connection highlights Stewart’s commitment to passing down wisdom to the next generation of Black pitchers, including past mentees like Dontrelle Willis and CC Sabathia.

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