"Bob Melvin's popularity is obvious in the A's clubhouse, where players swear by him. But is he popular enough to be a difference-maker when general manager Billy Beane pursues players for 2012?

He could be for free agent-to-be Josh Willingham, who said Melvin's new three-year contract could be a factor when it's time to sign his next contract.

"It doesn't hurt. That's for sure," Willingham said. "I really like Bob and what he's done. His whole career, not just this year. Sure, I think it's a positive.""