Rowand’s Cash Grab

On Wednesday, the San Francisco Giants signed Aaron Rowand. Rowand inked a 5-year, $60 million contract. According to Manager Bruce Bochy, Rowand is a leader. “I said I wanted to change the culture of the clubhouse and get back to the warrior mentality and play the game hard for nine innings,” Bochy said. “Aaron's the type of player who can do that. He's the type of player who can hold everyone accountable.”

During his career, Rowand has batted .286 with 93 home runs and 347 runs batted in. In 2007, Rowand swatted .309 with 27 home runs and 89 runs batted in. “Aaron's a guy who's won a Gold Glove and plays great defense in center field, and he had a great offensive year last year,” said Outfielder Randy Winn.

Today, marquee free agents are rare. The majority are overpaid. Rowand is not a superstar. He is not a cornerstone. However, he is not Gil Meche. Amidst this exorbitant era, Rowand’s windfall is explainable.