Yankees Scout Executive Dismissed After Disrespectful Remark Toward Female Staff Member – GM Brian Cashman Emphasizes “Character Over Title”
November 12, 2025 – New York, NY
The New York Yankees, already facing a tense offseason filled with restructuring and financial scrutiny, were hit with another headline this week — one that had nothing to do with baseball performance.
According to multiple sources within the organization, Donny Rowland, the team’s now-former Director of International Scouting, was dismissed after an incident involving a female employee at the Yankees’ Tampa training complex earlier this month.
Witnesses say the exchange occurred late one afternoon as staff prepared to close the facility. Rowland allegedly made a remark toward a young administrative assistant that was perceived as disrespectful. The situation immediately drew attention when General Manager Brian Cashman, who was on-site for offseason meetings, overheard the comment.
“Donny, I want to see you in my office tomorrow morning,” Cashman reportedly said quietly but firmly before walking away.
The next day, Cashman held a full-staff meeting in the player development building. Without naming names, his tone was unmistakably serious.
“Wearing the Yankees badge means more than scouting talent,” Cashman told staff. “It means treating every person here — from our coordinators to our custodians — with dignity. Respect is not optional in this organization. You represent the Yankees the moment you walk into this building.”
Attendees described the atmosphere as “tense and humbling.” One staff member said, “He wasn’t yelling — he was disappointed. And that hit harder than anger ever could.”
By the afternoon, the Yankees’ front office confirmed Rowland’s dismissal, citing “internal conduct inconsistent with organizational standards.” Insiders say the move was not reactionary but rather consistent with the culture of accountability Cashman and managing partner Hal Steinbrenner have worked to uphold.
Later that evening, Rowland reportedly reached out to the employee to apologize. She accepted his apology, describing the situation as “uncomfortable but now resolved.” Still, the Yankees stood by their decision.
“We build championships with people of integrity,” Cashman told reporters when asked about the matter. “You can teach baseball. You can’t teach respect.”
The Yankees’ swift and public response has drawn widespread praise from across Major League Baseball, seen as a strong statement that in the Bronx — titles, tenure, or trophies never outweigh basic decency.
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