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The Minnesota Twins made waves on Monday by dismissing Rocco Baldelli, closing the book on a seven-year managerial tenure that brought both high highs and low lows. Now comes the critical question: who’s next?
It’s early in the process, and right now, there’s no reporting to suggest who the frontrunners might be. But it’s never too soon to start considering potential candidates. Below is a first-draft watch list—names that Twins fans can begin to think about as the team begins its search. Some are familiar faces within the organization, others bring outside experience, and a few are more outside-the-box ideas that would shake things up.
Internal Options
In what could be a challenging environment for attracting outside candidates, the Twins may look inward. New or veteran managers from other organizations might hesitate to join a franchise viewed as struggling, making internal continuity an appealing path. An internal hire could serve as a bridge, steadying the ship in the short term while keeping familiarity and trust in place during a transition period.
Hank Conger
Conger has been with the Twins since 2022, first serving as the first base and catching coach before being promoted to assistant bench coach this past offseason. A former catcher (often dubbed the “on-field manager”), Conger has earned admiration from players and coaches for his presence and leadership. His reputation as a communicator and his steady rise through the staff make him a natural candidate for consideration.
Toby Gardenhire
The son of Twins Hall of Fame skipper Ron Gardenhire, Toby has managed within the system since 2018, moving from Cedar Rapids to Fort Myers to the Triple-A St. Paul Saints, where he currently leads. He recently notched his 500th managerial win in the organization. While minor-league records only tell part of the story, his reputation among players is strong, and his deep familiarity with both the system and roster gives him a legitimate shot.
Veteran Managers
The Twins may decide that the best move is to look outside the organization for a seasoned manager who can bring fresh philosophies and shake up the status quo.
Brad Mills
Mills brings decades of coaching experience, including a stint managing the Houston Astros from 2010–2012 and years as Terry Francona’s trusted bench coach in Cleveland. This season, he has been serving as bench coach for the playoff-bound Cincinnati Reds. Mills’s prior connection to Derek Falvey from their Cleveland days could make him a natural fit if the Twins want experience and continuity of leadership.
Skip Schumaker
Schumaker transitioned seamlessly from his playing career into managing, leading the Marlins to the postseason in 2023 and winning National League Manager of the Year honors. After a rocky 2024, he stepped away from managing but resurfaced as an advisor with the Rangers. At 45, Schumaker remains a rising managerial name who is sure to draw interest around the league. If the Twins want a proven yet still ascending candidate, Schumaker could be a strong option.
Outside-the-Box Options
In today’s MLB, the role of a manager often revolves less around calling every tactical shot and more around leadership, culture, and serving as a bridge between the front office and the clubhouse. With that in mind, the Twins could consider recent players with deep connections to the organization and game.
Torii Hunter
A Twins legend, Hunter checks a lot of boxes: charisma, good with the media, organizational ties to the Twins, and respect from major-league players. He understands the grind of a long season, and could keep players motivated while embodying the type of leadership fans crave. A Hunter hire would immediately energize the fan base.
Nelson Cruz
Cruz, like Hunter, would instantly win over fans and players alike. Even during his Twins playing days, he often functioned as a player-manager—a mentor and clubhouse leader who commanded universal respect. His bilingual skills and deep connection to Latino players would add a dimension the Twins have lacked. Cruz also brings a forward-thinking approach and passion for analytics, making him an interesting candidate.
It’s far too early to know which way the Twins will go, but the list of potential candidates ranges from trusted internal options to experienced veterans to bold, unconventional hires. What the front office values most—continuity, experience, or clubhouse leadership—will determine the direction of this search.
What do you think? Who would you like to see as the next manager of the Minnesota Twins? Leave a comment below and start the conversation.
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