He was described as having good pace, marking skills and big-game temperament,[1] as evidenced by his efforts in several finals matches for Carlton.
Pinnell continued his good form in 1970, playing 21 games during the home-and-away season.
[1] Pinnell, like most of his teammates, struggled to have an impact in the first half, but after being encouraged to take the game on by coach Barassi, responded well to be part of the premiership team.
In 1972, he was unable to play in the Blues' Grand Final victory after dislocating his knee cap in replay of the second semi-final against Richmond.
[3] In the 1990s, Pinnell was the Head of Middle School at Wesley College, Prahran and also taught mathematics.