The Yankees are parting ways with international director of scouting Donny Rowland, whose recent tenure has been marked by costly miscalculations on high-profile international free agents.
The Athleticâs Brandon Kuty confirmed Wednesday that the 62-year-old Rowland, who spent 15 years in his role and 23 years overall in the Yankeesâ organization, will not have his contract renewed.
MLB insider Francys Romero was the first to report that the club is not bringing Rowland back.
Yankees’ Big International FA Yet to Pan Out
Kuty spoke to multiple major league-sources who pointed to the Yankeesâ ârecent poor track record of turning big-money signings into impact major leaguersâ as a big factor in the teamâs decision to let Rowland go.
Among recent concerns is Jasson Dominguez, who was given a club-record $5.1 million signing bonus in 2019. Dominguez started last season as the Yankeesâ primary left fielder but was a part-time player by years end. While still just 22 years old, Dominguez slashed .257/.331/.388 with 10 home runs and 47 RBI. He was also one of the majorsâ worst defensive outfielders, recording a -10 OAA (outs above average).
In August, the Yankees released shortstop Alexander Vargas. Signed for $2.5 million in 2019 out of Cuba, Vargas began this season in High-A and posted a .633 OPS in 42 Double-A games before the Yankees cut ties.
Other players who have yet to meet expectations include outfielder Brando Mayea ($4.35 million bonus in 2023) and shortstops Roderick Arias ($4 million bonus in 2022) and Hans Montero ($1.7 million bonus in 2021).
Yankees ‘in the Process’ of Search for Rowland’s Replacement
Kuty reported that the Yankees are âstill in the processâ of finding a replacement for Rowland.
Rowland originally joined the Yankees as a national scout in 1995. He was with the organization for five seasons before leaving to become the Angelsâ scouting director. He returned to New York in 2007 as a national crosschecker and was promoted to director of international scouting in 2010.
One of his best investments was pitcher Luis Severino, who signed for $225,000 in 2011 and made two All-Star teams in eight seasons with New York.
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