Brian Sabeanthe architect behind three World Series titles with the San Francisco Giants, has been hired by the Yankees as executive advisor to senior vice president and GM Brian Casman.
The 66-year-old spent the past three decades with the Giants in multiple roles, serving as GM and senior vice president from 1996 to 2015, building Giants teams that won the World Series in 2010, 2012 and 2014.
Sabean was named Executive of the Year in 2003 by Sporting News and in 2003 and 2012 by Baseball America.
Returning to the Bronx is a bit of a homecoming for Sabean, who worked his way up from 1985 to 1992 in the scouting department with the Yankees for eight seasons. He served as vice president of player development and scouting with the Yankees from 1990-92 before moving to the Giants.
“It’s a bit emotional and overwhelming,” Sabean told media via Zoom on Tuesday. “It’s a bit of a twist of fate that after 30 years I’m coming back to the organization where I started. A lot of memories come flooding back. Thinking specifically about people like Gene Michael and Bill Livesey which were very important in my growth as a manager and as a person. They were a big part of my Yankee life as mentors and as friends.
“It’s humbling. At my age, I really appreciate being wanted and needed. When I talked to Cash, it became organic how I can help the organization. I’m doing everything I can. I’ll do everything I can to help the Yankees help win another World Series.”
Sabean explained that his specific role in the organization will be formed organically as he and Cashman work more closely together. But Sabean reiterated that he will help Cashman wherever he needs him, whether it be building a roster or scouting.
“I hope to be a utility,” said Sabean [Cashman] may want more advice. We will see how it develops.”
