Dustin Fowler was one of the key pieces received in the Sonny Gray deal. Fowler, along with prospects Jorge Mateo and James Kaprielian, came to Oakland as the Yankees hoped to acquire the missing piece for their postseason push. Meanwhile, the A’s had hoped that the trio of prospects they received could help them build a sustainable contender.
Fowler will not be a part of that future for the A’s. He was designated for assignment to make room for Trevor Rosenthal on the 40 man roster.
The A's have agreed to terms with right-handed pitcher Trevor Rosenthal on a one-year contract for the 2021 season. To clear a spot on the 40-man roster, the A’s designated outfielder Dustin Fowler for assignment.
— Oakland A's Communications (@AthleticsPR) February 22, 2021
Dustin Fowler part of a disappointing return for the Oakland A’s
That trade turned out to be a disaster for everyone involved. Mateo was already sent away by the A’s, going to the Angels for Tommy la Stella. Kaprielian has battled injuries and has just 3.2 major league innings under his belt. Gray was a disaster in New York, and was eventually traded to the Reds.
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Fowler’s time in the majors began inauspiciously. He ran into a wall chasing down a foul ball, damaging his knee on an unpadded electrical box. His 2017 season was over before it ever really began in the majors, as he ruptured a tendon in his knee and had to undergo surgery almost immediately thereafter.
He finally got an extended chance in 2018, but was unable to do much with that. In 203 plate appearances, Fowler posted a disappointing .224/.256/.354 batting line, hitting six homers and three doubles while stealing six bases in ten attempts. While he saved three runs in center, his glove was unable to carry his disappointing bat.
It is possible that he gets another chance. If Fowler goes unclaimed, he will remain in the A’s system. Considering his struggles in the majors, that seems to be the most likely scenario. Fowler may well have the opportunity to redeem himself.
For now, Dustin Fowler is another disappointment from the Sonny Gray trade. The Oakland A’s have designated him for assignment to clear room on the roster.