Cody Christie

Image courtesy of © RVR Photos-Imagn Images When Twins fans think of Kirby Puckett and Game 6, one image usually comes to mind. It is the unforgettable leap against the Metrodome plexiglass and the iconic swing that sent the baseball soaring into the left-center field seats, followed by the famous call, “And we’ll see you tomorrow night.” That moment immortalized Puckett as a franchise legend, the face of Minnesota’s greatest baseball memories. But four years earlier, before the national spotlight fully embraced him, Puckett had already authored a Game 6 performance that changed the course of franchise history. It did not end with fireworks or walk-off jubilation, but without it, there might not have been a 1991 moment to remember at all. A Game the Twins Could Not Afford to Lose The 1987 World Series was hanging in the balance. Minnesota trailed St. Louis three games to two and returned home to the Metrodome needing back-to-back wins to capture its first championship. The atmosphere was tense, the crowd hungry, and the Twins’ offense searching for a spark. That spark turned out to be Puckett. From the start, Puckett’s energy set the tone. He reached base in all five of his plate appearances, going 4-for-4 with a walk and a stolen base. His trademark blend of hustle and instinct was on full display. Every time he got on, something good happened for the Twins. He scored four times, tying a World Series record for runs in a single game. In a contest where Minnesota needed every ounce of offense, Puckett seemed to embody the will to win that defined the 1987 team. Turning the Tide in the Fifth Perhaps Puckett’s most crucial moment came in the bottom of the fifth inning. The Twins were down 5-2 and in danger of letting the series slip away. Puckett led off with a single, setting in motion a four-run rally that electrified the Metrodome. Gary Gaetti drove in Puckett with a double and Don Baylor followed with a two-run homer. Puckett’s speed, timing, and baserunning aggression helped Minnesota claw its way back, flipping the momentum and silencing a St. Louis team that had appeared poised to celebrate soon. The Twins never looked back after that inning. They took the lead and held it, powered by the heartbeat of their lineup. It was not the dramatic finish of 1991, but it was every bit as essential. Puckett’s relentless effort and perfect night at the plate ensured there would be a Game 7, and history would remember what came next: Frank Viola’s masterful performance, a parade through downtown Minneapolis, and a World Series pennant that waves proudly above Target Field. The Birth of a Legend Game 6 of 1987 marked the moment Puckett became more than an All-Star. It was his arrival as a postseason force, a player who thrived when the lights burned brightest. He was still only 27 years old, but his leadership and spark already defined the Twins’ identity. Four years later, he would top himself in legendary fashion, cementing his place in baseball lore with another Game 6 masterpiece. But before that moment ever happened, Puckett’s first great Game 6 helped write the first chapter of Minnesota’s championship story. It was a performance that kept a dream alive and proved that when the Twins needed him most, Puckett was always ready to deliver. What do you remember about Game 6 in 1987? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins enter the offseason facing a self-inflicted challenge: rebuilding a bullpen that was stripped down at the trade deadline. In an effort to retool the organization, the team traded away Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, and Louis Varland (all pitchers with multiple years of team control). The moves left a glaring hole in the late innings, and raised questions about how the club plans to protect leads in 2026. While the front office may pursue young, controllable arms, there is also value in bringing back trusted veterans who have worn a Twins uniform before. Three familiar left-handers are all free agents this winter and could provide steady production, leadership, and perhaps trade value later in the season. Danny Coulombe: A Dependable Option When Healthy Coulombe has made a career out of defying expectations. The 36-year-old lefty was dominant in his time with Minnesota last season, posting a 1.16 ERA across 31 innings before being traded to the Rangers. His time in Texas was rockier, with a 5.25 ERA in 12 innings, but shoulder fatigue and a previous forearm strain limited his effectiveness. Even with his modest velocity (his four-seamer and sinker average around 90 mph), Coulombe continues to find ways to get hitters out. Since 2020, he has produced a 2.60 ERA over 173 1/3 innings, supported by strong strikeout and walk rates. He thrives on command, deception, and a sharp breaking ball that keeps hitters guessing. Coulombe made $3 million last season, and another one-year deal in that range would make sense for both sides. If healthy, he could again be a stabilizing presence in the middle innings and a mentor to younger arms. Taylor Rogers: A Familiar Face with Proven Results Rogers’s tenure with the Twins ended in a 2022 trade, but his consistency since then makes him an appealing reunion candidate. He peaked as an All-Star with the Twins, but has been a steady contributor over the last three seasons, posting a 3.16 ERA with a 26.4% strikeout rate since 2023. His velocity has dipped (his average sinker now sits around 92.7 mph, down from 95 mph during his prime), but he has adapted well, relying more on location and his signature sweeping slider. Though teams haven’t used him in many high-leverage spots recently, Rogers still handles left-handed hitters well and limits hard contact. At 35, Rogers brings experience, composure, and familiarity with the Twins organization. For a bullpen seeking stability and leadership, his presence could help bridge the gap between young relievers and the big moments late in games. Caleb Thielbar: The Steady Veteran Returns? Thielbar has been one of the best stories in Twins history, and his performance with the Cubs in 2025 showed that he still has something left in the tank. The 39-year-old southpaw posted a 2.64 ERA in 58 innings and tied for the team lead with 25 holds. His strong command and ability to attack hitters from both sides of the plate make him a reliable option, even as he nears 40. Thielbar’s 2024 season was forgettable (5.32 ERA, 4.10 FIP), but outside of that blip, he has consistently posted ERAs below 3.50 since 2020. He doesn’t overpower hitters, but his control and composure fit perfectly into a bullpen needing reliable innings. A one-year deal seems likely, and few pitchers embody the perseverance and professionalism the Twins value more than Thielbar. A Smart and Sentimental Solution The Twins have multiple holes to fill, and rebuilding the bullpen from scratch will not be easy. Bringing back any of these three left-handers (or perhaps more than one) would add experience, versatility, and familiarity to a group that needs it. Each pitcher could handle late-inning work early in the season, while the team evaluates younger arms. If Minnesota falls out of contention by midseason, any of these veterans could become valuable trade chips at the deadline, much as they were in past years. The combination of low-cost contracts, consistent results, and familiarity with the organization makes them ideal candidates for short-term success and long-term flexibility. Reuniting with Coulombe, Rogers, or Thielbar would be a practical move for a team that needs dependable relief pitching to navigate the ups and downs of a transitional season. It might also make new skipper Derek Shelton feel more comfortable, not just to have trustworthy left-handed relief, but to see another gray beard or two in the clubhouse. Which southpaw makes the most sense for the Twins? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

The Minnesota Twins appear set to bring a familiar face back into the fold, as multiple reports indicate Derek Shelton is expected to be named the team’s next manager. Shelton, who previously served as the Twins’ bench coach under Rocco Baldelli, has spent the last six seasons managing the Pittsburgh Pirates. While his win-loss record in Pittsburgh may not jump off the page, his reputation for player development and leadership has earned him another opportunity to guide a major league club. Shelton’s tenure with the Pirates was defined by the steady climb of a young roster learning to compete at the game’s highest level. The brightest example of his impact came in 2024, when top overall pick Paul Skenes burst onto the scene and instantly became one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball. Getting the Most Out of a Phenom When Skenes debuted for the Pirates, the hype surrounding him was almost impossible to live up to. A former No. 1 overall pick and college superstar, Skenes carried the expectations of a franchise desperate for an ace. Under Shelton’s leadership, he met those expectations and shattered them. During his rookie season, Skenes went 11-3 with a 1.96 ERA in 23 starts, striking out 170 batters across 133 innings. He was even better in 2025, leading the NL in ERA (1.97), ERA+ (217), FIP (2.36), WHIP (0.948), and HR/9 (0.5). His combination of overpowering stuff and unwavering composure helped him become the front-runner for the 2025 National League Cy Young Award. Shelton’s approach was a key part of that success. He managed Skenes’ workload carefully, never pushing him too far too fast, and allowed the young right-hander to find his own rhythm within the structure of a big-league routine. “I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a rookie that poised,” Shelton said at last year’s MLB Winter Meetings. “To see the lack of emotion, I think right now if you call Paul Skenes, he’s ready for the season to start.” That poise became Skenes’ calling card, and Shelton deserves credit for helping him navigate the pressure of being the face of a rebuilding franchise. On a Pirates team that often struggled to provide run support or defensive consistency, Skenes remained the club’s constant. Even during losing streaks, his preparation and demeanor reflected the calm leadership Shelton preached. Leadership Through Adversity Shelton’s record with the Pirates sits at 306-440, but those numbers tell only part of the story. He took over in November 2019 during a full-scale franchise reset led by owner Bob Nutting. The first three years were grueling, with the club winning less than 40 percent of its games, including back-to-back 100-loss seasons. Yet, by 2023, there were clear signs of progress. Pittsburgh won 76 games and briefly flirted with playoff contention before a late-season slide. When Skenes arrived the following spring, the team’s energy changed. Shelton fostered a clubhouse culture that emphasized accountability and preparation, traits that became essential for a rookie handling enormous expectations. Even when the offense faltered in 2025 and the Pirates fell out of contention early, players continued to praise Shelton’s steadiness. When he was dismissed earlier this year, Skenes summed up the clubhouse sentiment perfectly. “Unfortunately, I wasn’t shocked,” he said. “Someone’s got to be held accountable, and unfortunately right now, it’s him. That’s just kind of how it goes, but I don’t know that it fixes the root of the issue, which is we need to play better.” Those words carried weight coming from a player Shelton had mentored so closely. They reflected mutual respect and the type of bond that can only form between a player and a manager who share a singular goal: maximizing potential. Returning to Minnesota with a Familiar Mission Now, Shelton is poised to bring that developmental mindset back to Minnesota. His first stint with the Twins helped shape Baldelli’s early success, particularly in building cohesive communication across a diverse roster. This time, the challenge will be different. The Twins are shifting toward a younger core, and Shelton’s ability to guide emerging stars could prove invaluable. The organization’s top prospect, Walker Jenkins, isn’t far from his major league debut. Like Skenes, he will arrive with considerable expectations as a potential franchise cornerstone. Shelton’s experience managing a phenom through that type of pressure should serve him well. He knows how to balance patience with performance, and he understands the importance of nurturing both the physical and mental aspects of a young player’s transition to the big leagues. If Shelton can replicate even a fraction of the success he helped Skenes achieve, the Twins could be entering an exciting new chapter. A return to familiar surroundings, combined with a proven track record of getting the most out of elite talent, makes Shelton a fitting choice to lead Minnesota’s next wave of stars. What stands out most about the relationship between Shelton and Skenes? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Tim Heitman-Imagn Images When the Twins announced that they were moving on from Rocco Baldelli, the team said it was time for a “fresh perspective” and “new energy.” Less than three weeks later, that fresh perspective apparently includes someone who sounds, looks, and even acts an awful lot like the guy they just fired. Multiple sources have confirmed that among the finalists for the Twins’ managerial opening is a mysterious candidate named Rocky Baldellini, who interviewed earlier this week. According to those in attendance, Baldellini arrived at Target Field wearing a neatly pressed Twins polo, a faint New England accent, and a mustache that “appeared to have been purchased from a Halloween store clearance bin.” “We were really impressed with his familiarity with our roster, our developmental philosophy, and our clubhouse dynamics,” said Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey. “He knew everyone’s name, remembered every bullpen usage pattern from the last two years, and even referenced a team meeting we had in July 2023. It’s like he’s been here before.” When asked about his managerial style, Baldellini offered answers that sounded strikingly similar to those of his almost-namesake predecessor. “I believe in collaboration, process, and trusting our data,” he told reporters. “I also think managing workloads is important. I just have this deep, inexplicable understanding of how the Twins handle pitching changes.” Reporters pressed him on his uncanny resemblance to the recently dismissed skipper, but Baldellini quickly brushed it off. “People say I look like a lot of guys,” he said, adjusting his conspicuously peeling mustache. “But I’m my own person. Totally different guy. I even spell my name with an extra ‘i.’” Inside sources say the interview ended with Baldellini sharing a heartfelt story about overcoming adversity following a promising playing career cut short by injury, something that really resonated with the Twins’ front office. “It was powerful,” said Falvey. “You just do not meet many managerial candidates who happen to have the exact same career trajectory, philosophy, and speaking cadence as Rocco Baldelli. It’s uncanny.” When asked if the mustache might have been a disguise, Falvey declined to speculate but admitted it was “surprisingly distracting.” “Look, we’re focused on finding the best leader for our team,” he said. “If that person just happens to have the same face as Rocco with some new facial hair, we’ll cross that bridge when we get there.” As for next steps, the Twins plan to continue their “thorough and thoughtful” search process before making a final decision. However, one front office member admitted that Baldellini made quite the impression. “We came into this process wanting change,” he said. “But maybe what we really want is change that looks almost exactly like what we had before—just with a mustache.” When asked if he had any final words for Twins fans, Baldellini smiled and replied, “I just hope they give me a chance. After all, how often do you get a second chance to make a first impression?” Hey. Wait a minute. View full article

Image courtesy of © Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins enter this offseason facing a familiar but unsettling question: how low will ownership let payroll go? After consecutive disappointing seasons and amid shrinking local TV revenues, the front office is navigating a financial landscape far different from the one that fueled their 2023 postseason run. The organization has long operated with a mid-market mindset, but the tone this winter suggests a more dramatic pullback could be on the way. Across baseball, payroll flexibility has become a buzzword, often serving as a polite way of saying “spend less.” For the Twins, that 'flexibility' could turn into a euphemism for rigidity and constraint. With ownership hinting at reductions and early projections showing significant cuts, fans are bracing for a quieter offseason. While Minnesota has never been a major spender, it’s rare for the franchise to face such visible belt-tightening following years of on-field progress and roster investment. FanGraphs’s Jon Becker, who manages the site’s Roster Resource payroll pages, recently outlined just how far things could theoretically fall. His analysis underscores a point many around baseball have suspected: while the Twins aren’t headed for a complete teardown, ownership’s directive could push the payroll into uncomfortable territory. The Current Payroll Picture FanGraphs currently projects Minnesota’s payroll at roughly $95 million, a steep decline from last year’s $136 million. That total already represents a significant step back for a team that, just a year ago, looked like a division favorite. Even so, Becker noted, “In theory, you can get through a season with a payroll of, say, $30–40 million if you were committed to cheapness, though of course they’re not going to actually go that low.” Minnesota’s only guaranteed contracts are tied to Pablo López ($21.5 million) and Byron Buxton ($15 million). MLB Trade Rumors has also posted the team’s projected arbitration salaries, which are obviously tied to the team’s bottom line. Ryan Jeffers ($6.6 million), Joe Ryan ($5.8 million), Trevor Larnach ($4.7 million), Bailey Ober ($4.6 million), and Royce Lewis ($3 million) are the highest projected arbitration salaries. Out of this group, Larnach is the lone player who is a non-tender candidate. Non-Tender and Option Decisions If Minnesota truly wanted to operate on a bare-bones budget, additional trimming would be possible. The current projection doesn’t include decisions on players like Justin Topa, who could have his option picked up or go through arbitration, but it paints a clear picture of contraction. The Twins need bullpen arms, so it seems likely for Topa to be on the team in some capacity. Becker also mentioned that non-tendering likely candidates like Michael Tonkin, Génesis Cabrera, and Anthony Misiewicz would be part of the equation. Those decisions alone could save an estimated $4.5 million and open spots for younger, league-minimum players. The Twins have shown a willingness in recent years to churn through low-cost relievers, so cutting loose fringe bullpen pieces would fit their recent operational pattern. Moving Core Players Even with those non-tenders, Becker suggested that Minnesota could push the payroll even lower. “They very well could get under $110 million even if Buxton insists on staying, by moving López, Jeffers, and Ryan,” he said. Trading any of those players would dramatically reshape the roster and send a clear message that a reset is underway. López remains under team control for two seasons, and Ryan and Jeffers are both controllable contributors who would bring back strong returns. Those types of moves would prioritize long-term flexibility and prospect depth over immediate competitiveness. Reviewing the Deadline Deals Becker also pointed out why a total teardown might not make much sense. “I’m not sure I expect that much of a blow-up, since they got a lot of MLB-ready guys in the trades (at the deadline),” he wrote. At the 2025 deadline, Minnesota focused on acquiring players who could contribute soon, not just prospects for the distant future. Many of the players the Twins acquired were at Double A or higher, including Hendry Mendez, Mick Abel, Ryan Gallagher, Sam Armstrong, Taj Bradley, James Outman, Kendry Rojas and Alan Roden. That approach signaled the organization’s intent to remain somewhat competitive while managing financial realities. It could allow them to trim payroll while maintaining a respectable big-league roster filled with younger, cost-controlled talent. As the winter unfolds, the Twins front office faces a delicate balance between budgetary restraint and fielding a credible team. The direction ownership takes will reveal whether this is a one-year reset, or the start of a longer austerity era in Minnesota baseball. What is your estimate for next year’s payroll? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of Seth Stohs, Twins Daily It has been more than three decades since the Minnesota Twins last celebrated on baseball’s biggest stage. The memories of 1987 and 1991 have faded into nostalgia, while fans have watched the years roll by with only flashes of postseason success. After the club’s back-to-back disappointing seasons in 2024 and 2025, the search for the next chapter of Twins baseball is officially on. But how long will it take for that chapter to include a parade down Hennepin Avenue? A Franchise Searching for the Next Peak The Twins have shown resilience as one of baseball’s small- to mid-market franchises. With championships in 1987 and 1991, they’ve experienced the highs that some organizations never reach. Yet, since that magical Game 7 win over Atlanta, the postseason story has mostly been one of frustration. Minnesota has built some strong teams, even breaking its playoff losing streak in 2023, but sustained October success has remained elusive. The key question is whether this current front office and player development group can turn another cycle of talent into something lasting. The organization’s next era will depend on a few familiar pillars: developing homegrown pitching, balancing payroll with smart acquisitions, and building the kind of roster depth that holds up under injuries and pressure. To explore what might come next, there are three potential team-building paths to explore: “Aggressive Rebuild”, “Moderate Build”, and “Stalled Build.” Each scenario estimates the Twins' likelihood of winning the World Series between now and 2040, based on factors including player development success and front-office performance. Aggressive Rebuild In an “Aggressive Rebuild,” the front office and ownership commit to short-term pain for long-term gain. That means developing top-tier prospects quickly, moving veterans for young talent, and being bold on the trade market. This model gives the Twins a chance to win, but it likely pushes their window of opportunity to at least 5 years from now. For the Twins, that approach in the winter following the 2025 season would likely mean difficult decisions on several familiar faces. Players nearing free agency or arbitration spikes could be traded for controllable prospects (e.g., Joe Ryan, Ryan Jeffers), while the club leans heavily on its player development pipeline. It might involve dealing an established starter or a middle-of-the-order bat to replenish depth at the Double-A and Triple-A levels. The team should take a step back standings-wise in 2026, but the goal is to build a young, cost-controlled roster that peaks together by the end of the decade. Moderate Build A “Moderate Build” scenario follows a steadier approach. The Twins make gradual improvements while maintaining a competitive roster, a philosophy similar to the current one. In this case, the World Series odds climb more slowly because the team is caught between contender and pretender. For the Twins, a “Moderate Rebuild” this winter would mean staying the course rather than tearing things down. The front office could focus on more minor but targeted upgrades, perhaps adding a mid-rotation starter or a reliable bullpen arm while keeping the core of the roster intact. Younger players such as Brooks Lee and Luke Keaschall would be expected to take on larger roles, while veterans like Byron Buxton or Pablo Lopez would remain key pieces. This approach also includes signing short-term deals with bounce-back candidates to maintain flexibility for future offseasons. The goal would be to stay competitive in the AL Central, contend for playoff spots, and hope that the next internal wave of talent matures into a championship-caliber core within the next several seasons. Stalled Build The “Stalled Build” paints a bleaker picture. If development falters or payroll limits restrict progress, Minnesota’s chances linger in the low single digits for much of the next decade. Even by 2040, the probability of a championship remains low in this scenario. If the Twins fall into a “Stalled Build” this offseason, it would likely mean another quiet winter with minimal roster movement. Financial constraints could keep the team from pursuing top free agents, while hesitation to trade key players might leave the roster stuck in the middle, good enough to hover around .500 but not built to truly contend. Prospect development could slow as young players are rushed or blocked, and the lack of significant additions might frustrate both fans and veterans in the clubhouse. In this version of events, 2026 becomes another year of waiting, with the organization treading water rather than taking meaningful steps toward a championship window. The Most Likely Window So, when might it finally happen? Based on historical context and projections for next season, the most likely window for a Twins championship falls after 2031. That gives the team a few years to rebuild momentum, develop its next wave of talent, and align a roster capable of surviving the postseason gauntlet. There are plenty of unknowns that could shift the timeline. A breakout from a young core player, a smart trade for a frontline starter, or an unexpected free-agent splash could accelerate the clock. On the other hand, another cycle of injuries, regression, or conservative roster decisions could push the wait even longer. The road back to the World Series is long, but Twins fans have been down this road before. The franchise’s greatest triumphs came when young stars rose together and the organization trusted its process. If that formula returns, the next celebration might not be as far away as it feels. Maybe it will happen in 2031. Maybe earlier. What’s certain is that when it finally comes, it will feel just as magical as the first time the Metrodome erupted under a cloud of confetti. Can the Twins win the World Series in the next decade? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images In a move that has left Major League Baseball’s front offices confused, amused, and deeply uncomfortable, the Minnesota Twins have officially filed paperwork to initiate the rarely used “Takesies Backsies” clause on their trade with the Toronto Blue Jays. The clause, reportedly scribbled in the margins of an old CBA draft and written in crayon, allows a team to reclaim a player if “vibes change dramatically” after the trade is completed. Minnesota dealt right-hander Louis Varland to the Blue Jays at the trade deadline in exchange for outfielder Alan Roden and lefty prospect Kendry Rojas. The Twins were initially thrilled, with one front office source saying they “couldn’t wait to see Varland thrive somewhere else while we tried to convince ourselves it was part of the plan.” However, after Toronto’s stunning run to the World Series, the Twins’ enthusiasm cooled. Roden hit just .158 with the Twins and Rojas reportedly gave up five runs in a simulated inning against a lineup made up of Twins employees from the analytics department. That was enough for the front office to act. “Yeah, look, at the time we thought it made sense,” Twins President of Baseball Operations Derek Falvey said, nervously shuffling a pile of old Little League rulebooks. “But then we watched the Blue Jays pop champagne on TV and thought, wait a second… that guy used to pitch for us. So, we called MLB and asked if we could, you know, undo it. They said no at first, but then we said ‘Takesies backsies,’ and they had to honor it. It’s in the rulebook somewhere. Probably.” Varland, who pitched multiple high-leverage innings in the ALCS for Toronto and reportedly became the clubhouse dog barker, was less than thrilled to hear the news. “I just figured I was, you know, in Canada now,” Varland said. “They even taught me how to apologize properly. But I guess I’ll go back to Minnesota if they really want me. I still have the keycard for Target Field, I think.” Toronto’s front office seemed baffled by the development. General Manager Ross Atkins appeared on Sportsnet shaking his head in disbelief. “We’ve had some tough trades before, but no one’s ever tried to use playground rules to undo one. We’re not sure if this is legal, but MLB told us to just roll with it until they find the right section of the Collective Bargaining Agreement that deals with ‘do-overs.’” Roden was equally confused. “They told me to unpack, then repack, then unpack again,” he said. “At this point, I just want to know which team’s group chat I’m supposed to be in.” The Twins maintain that this is not a reflection on Roden or Rojas, but rather on their bullpen situation heading into 2026. “We’re just realizing that we actually need pitchers who can get major league hitters out,” Falvey explained. “It’s something we probably should’ve thought about before trading one who could.” When reached for comment, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred confirmed that this situation is “unprecedented but technically permissible under Rule 9.2.3-B, which states that all trades can be reconsidered if the regret reaches at least a 9 out of 10 on the panic scale.” As the Twins prepare to reacquaint themselves with Varland, the mood around Target Field remains awkward. “We’re all pretending this is normal,” one coach said. “We’re setting up a ‘Welcome Back, Louis’ banner, but we still have the ‘Thanks for Everything, Louis’ one hanging right next to it. It’s confusing for everyone.” The team hopes to have the matter resolved before spring training. Until then, Falvey says the front office will continue to review all trades made in the last five years, “just to see if we can call any more do-overs. “If the Brewers can reinvent themselves every season,” Falvey said, “why can’t we just rewind ours?” View full article

Image courtesy of © Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images For every fan base dreaming of a championship parade, there’s a phase where hope becomes the most valuable currency. It often starts with a message from the front office about patience and progress. Young players are coming. The future is bright. A better club is on the horizon. That’s a comforting idea, especially when a team sits near the bottom of the standings. But for most organizations without top-tier payrolls, the results don't live up to the promise. The Minnesota Twins know this feeling all too well. After six straight losing seasons from 2011 to 2016, a complete rebuild had had time to unfold. High draft picks, a new player-development focus, and a growing farm system were supposed to set the stage for sustained success. A few division titles followed, but the team never made it past the ALDS—and if one discounts the 60-game pandemic season, they never made back-to-back trips to the postseason. Now, after trading away nearly 40 percent of their roster at the 2025 deadline, the cycle might be starting over. So what can fans realistically expect from a rebuild? To answer that, it helps to look at two teams that took drastically different paths to relevance. Houston’s Ruthless Rebuild When the Houston Astros committed to tearing everything down between 2011 and 2014, it was baseball’s version of a controlled demolition. They lost over 100 games in three straight seasons. Payrolls hovered near the league minimum, and fans were asked to endure some truly unwatchable baseball. But Houston’s approach was unapologetic. They invested heavily in analytics, revamped player development, and stockpiled top draft picks. Those painful seasons produced cornerstone players like Carlos Correa, Alex Bregman, and George Springer. By 2017, the rebuild had evolved into a dynasty. Eight straight playoff appearances and seven consecutive ALCS trips followed, along with two World Series titles. The Astros became the model for a modern rebuild. They proved that patience, when paired with elite scouting and player development, could lead to dominance. Yet, even that success came at a cost. Years of losing alienated fans, and their later sign-stealing scandal cast a shadow over their achievements. Still, few would deny that Houston’s plan worked as intended. Baltimore’s Long Road Back The Baltimore Orioles followed a similar blueprint, though their results have been more complicated. Between 2018 and 2021, the Orioles lost over 100 games in three of four seasons. The front office (headed by ex-Astros wonk Mike Elias) prioritized high draft picks and a complete overhaul of the organization. Their farm system quickly became one of baseball’s best, producing names like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Jackson Holliday. For a brief stretch, it looked like Baltimore’s patience was paying off. They reached the playoffs in 2023 and 2024, reigniting hope in a long-suffering fan base. But the dream stalled in the postseason. They never made it out of the ALDS, and in 2025, they tumbled below .500 again, finishing 19 games back in the brutal AL East. Baltimore’s rebuild succeeded in creating a fun, young roster, but financial limitations and an inscrutable unwillingness to spend on established stars have left their project of domination unfinished. They built the foundation, but never added the capstones. It’s a story that feels familiar to Minnesota fans. The Double-Edged Sword of Rebuilding A rebuild offers an easy sell for a front office. It buys time. It allows ownership to lower payroll, while still promising better days ahead. Fans are told to be patient, trust the process, and celebrate the future rather than the present. The problem is that for most small-market clubs, that future never truly arrives. Teams like the Astros are the exception, not the rule—and their massive media market gave them a cushion the Twins do not enjoy. Rebuilds can lead to improved farm systems and more innovative player development strategies, but without consistent financial investment, they rarely deliver championships. In the meantime, losing becomes normalized, and fans are left to wonder when all the suffering will finally matter. For the Twins, the challenge now is to prove that this next phase isn’t just another reset. They’ve rebuilt before. They’ve drafted well at times. They’ve won the division. But if the cycle of tearing down and treading water continues, the promise of a brighter future might start to feel like a well-rehearsed sales pitch rather than a real plan. Asking fans to believe that new wave of innovation is coming without a change in front-office leadership is a tall order. Hope is powerful, but it only lasts so long before fans start asking for results. Are the Twins in a rebuild? When is their next winning window? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of Top Row L to R: Ryan Flaherty (© Matt Marton-Imagn Images), Derek Shelton (© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images), Bottom Row L to R: Scott Servais (© Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images), James Rowson (John Meore/The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK) The Twins are entering a moment of reset. With the front office evaluating roster construction and a clubhouse that needs a clearer voice, the managerial decision feels like more than a change on paper. This is a hire that will shape how young players are used, how veterans are managed, and how the team approaches both development and competition in the years ahead. That context helps explain why Minnesota is weighing both familiarity and a fresh perspective. Rocco Baldelli was the face of the Twins for seven seasons, a manager who delivered division titles and an AL Manager of the Year award but who also closed his tenure with two disappointing seasons in a row. The front office moved on after a 2025 campaign that ended with the club losing 92 games, and the organization signaled it wants a different voice in the dugout going forward. Multiple reports indicate the Twins have whittled the search down to four candidates: Derek Shelton, James Rowson, Ryan Flaherty, and Scott Servais. The names tell you a lot about what Minnesota is considering: experience with the current front office and a mix of proven managers and high-level coaches who know today’s players. Derek Shelton Why He is Here: Shelton is the most Minnesota familiar name on the list. He served as the Twins' bench coach during the club’s transition to the Baldelli era and was a finalist in the 2018 search that ultimately brought Baldelli to Minnesota. That prior relationship with Derek Falvey and members of the front office seems to matter a great deal to the club as it seeks a steady hand who understands the organization's culture and roster construction philosophy. The Managerial Résumé and Caveats: Shelton’s big-league managerial track record comes from his five-plus seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he struggled to win consistently with a club that lacked top-tier talent because the ownership group didn’t invest in the team (sound familiar?). The Pirates fired him after a rough start to a recent season, and his overall record as a big-league manager is well below a five-hundred winning percentage. That history means hiring him is a bet that familiarity and clubhouse fit will trump results elsewhere. James Rowson Why He is Here: Rowson is an offensive teacher with deep ties to the Twins organization. He was the Twins' hitting coach during the 2019 season when Minnesota’s offense put up historic totals, and he interviewed for the manager position in that earlier 2018 cycle. After stints in Miami, Detroit, and with the Yankees, he has continued to build a reputation as a developer of hitters and a steady clubhouse presence. For a team looking to have young bats take steps forward, Rowson offers credibility with hitters and experience running a major league staff. The Managerial Résumé and Caveats: Rowson is not a proven big-league manager, but he is a familiar voice whom the Twins have already evaluated closely. According to the report from The Athletic, he was also very impressive during his interview with the Twins. If Minnesota wants an emphasis on offense, player development, and continuity with players who already respect the organization, Rowson checks many boxes. The main question is whether the front office wants someone who can be a strong in-game strategist beyond hitting instruction. Ryan Flaherty Why He is Here: Flaherty has been rising through the big-league coaching ranks quickly. A former utility man with eight seasons of major league playing time, he began coaching in San Diego and later served as the Cubs' bench coach under Craig Counsell. He has been in the conversation for multiple managerial openings, and his candidacy here suggests Minnesota is evaluating a younger coach who has experience in modern clubhouse management and analytics-friendly staffs. He fits a mold similar to Baldelli's when the Twins hired him. The Managerial Résumé and Caveats: Flaherty is attractive because he blends recent playing experience with rapid coaching growth, and he is considered a good communicator. He would represent a cleaner break from the Baldelli era than rehiring someone from that staff while still being connected to front offices and managers who have had success. The risk is that he is a first-time manager candidate at the big-league level, and Minnesota would have to decide whether it wants a developmental coach or a tested leader. Scott Servais Why He is Here: Servais brings the most established managerial résumé of the group. He spent nine seasons managing the Seattle Mariners, posting a winning percentage above .500 and producing several high-win seasons, including multiple campaigns with at least 86 wins. He is viewed as an experienced leader who has navigated playoff expectations and long-term roster building. After Seattle moved on from him, he worked as a special assistant for the Padres, keeping him close to the game and on other teams’ radars. The Managerial Résumé and Caveats: Servais is appealing if the Twins want a tested manager who has been in high-stakes season-long battles and who can manage a clubhouse of veterans and prospects alike. The counterpoint is that Servais has not been part of the Twins culture recently, so he is more of an outside hire, and the club would have to weigh that against the value of continuity. Reports also suggest that other teams have eyed him, which could complicate the Twins' timeline. This shortlist reads like a front office that values familiarity and development but is not closed to outside experience. Shelton and Rowson have the inside track and direct ties to the Twins' way of doing things. Flaherty and Servais offer fresh energy and proven managerial methods, respectively. Whichever direction Minnesota chooses will tell us more about whether the club wants to double down on internal continuity or pivot toward a new voice for the clubhouse and a new approach for the roster. Which of the final four candidates makes the most sense? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images The MLB Draft is one of baseball’s biggest guessing games. Every front office hopes to find the next cornerstone star, but for every success story, countless players never make it to Target Field. As the 2019 class reaches the end of its initial professional contracts, several members can now become minor league free agents if they are not added to a 40-man roster this offseason. It’s a good time to look back at that group and see where the picks have landed. First Round: SS Keoni Cavaco, 13th Overall The Twins took a big swing when they selected Cavaco in the first round. At the time, he was seen as a raw talent with high upside, but that gamble never paid off. Cavaco never advanced beyond High-A in the Twins system and hit just .176/.244/.301 over 93 games at that level in 2024. After being released, he made a surprising transition to the mound with the Houston Astros organization. he began 2025 with the Chicago Dogs of the independent American Association. As a pitcher, he posted a 4.10 ERA with a 1.30 WHIP and a 53-to-27 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 79 innings. Meanwhile, players like Bryson Stott and Corbin Carroll, who were picked just a few spots later, have blossomed into MLB regulars. Supplemental First Round: OF Matt Wallner, 39th Overall Wallner’s 2025 season was a bit of a roller coaster, but his 110 OPS+ shows that his bat remains a valuable part of Minnesota’s lineup. His power remains his calling card, though his defense is a work in progress. With Emmanuel Rodriguez and Walker Jenkins moving closer to the majors, the Twins might look to use Wallner more at designated hitter or first base in the future. Second Round: RHP Matt Canterino, 54th Overall Few Twins prospects have been as intriguing as Canterino when healthy. His electric stuff and strikeout ability were undeniable, but injuries repeatedly interrupted his rise. After dealing with elbow and shoulder surgeries, he was released and re-signed on a two-year, minor league deal last spring. In limited action over his career, he owns a sparkling 1.48 ERA with a 39.1% strikeout rate across 85 innings. If he can finally stay healthy, he still has the tools to impact a big-league bullpen. Third Round: Spencer Steer, 90th Overall Steer is one of the most successful outcomes of this class, even if it came from another organization. The Twins traded him to Cincinnati as part of the Tyler Mahle deal, and Steer has since become a fixture in the Reds lineup. Through nearly 490 games, he has posted a .243/.329/.421 (.750) slash line with a 101 OPS+, showing slightly above average production. Fourth Round: IF Seth Gray, 119th Overall Gray reached Triple-A but never quite broke through. He had a .763 OPS across Double- and Triple-A in 2023 before being released the following spring. He spent time in independent ball after that but did not play professionally in 2025. He is now working in the construction industry with his dad at J. Gray Exterior Designs in Springfield, Ohio. Fifth Round: UTL Will Holland, 149th Overall Holland has continued to grind through the upper minors, spending most of last year with St. Paul. His .197/.296/.341 (.637) line wasn’t enough to push for a big-league look, though his defensive versatility at shortstop and center field gives him some value. At 27 years old, his window with the Twins could be closing. He becomes a minor-league free agent when the World Series ends. Sixth Round: RHP Sawyer Gipson-Long, 179th Overall Gipson-Long found his way to Detroit after the Twins dealt him for reliever Michael Fulmer in 2022. Since then, he has made 12 appearances in the majors with a 5.44 ERA and a 1.21 WHIP. He debuted in 2023. He missed the 2024 season with Tommy John surgery and his 2025 season started a little bit late too. His minor league numbers have shown enough to keep earning opportunities with the Tigers. Seventh Round: INF Anthony Prato, 209th Overall Prato was a steady performer in the Twins system but never earned a call to the majors. After three strong years in Triple-A, he was released in August. The Pirates quickly picked him up, but his bat went quiet, and he finished the year with a .528 OPS at their Triple-A affiliate. Like Holland, he will become a free agent after the World Series. Eighth Round: RHP Casey Legumina, 239th Overall Traded to the Reds for Kyle Farmer, Legumina bounced to Seattle this past spring. With the Mariners, he appeared in 48 games and pitched 49 2/3 innings, posting a 5.62 ERA and a 1.45 WHIP. His mid-90s fastball has kept him on the radar, but consistency remains an issue. Ninth Round: LHP Brent Headrick, 269th Overall Headrick’s perseverance paid off after being claimed off waivers by the Yankees in February. He debuted with the Twins in 2023 and missed almost all of the 2024 season with an elbow injury. In 17 major league appearances this season, he put together an impressive 3.13 ERA and a 1.04 WHIP, making him one of the quiet success stories of this draft class. Tenth Round: RHP Ben Gross, 299th Overall Gross was a senior sign out of college and advanced quickly through the lower minors. He topped out at Double-A but spent most of the 2022 season on the injured list. Not recovering real quickly, Gross retired in the spring of 2023. Like many college arms drafted in later rounds, he provided organizational depth but didn’t stick long term. Other Notable Picks A few late-round selections from this class have made a real impact. Cody Laweryson debuted for the Twins this season and could factor into the bullpen picture in 2026. Louis Varland turned into a hard-throwing reliever before Minnesota traded him to Toronto at this year’s deadline. Now, he’s one of the team’s highest-leverage arms for their World Series team. And Edouard Julien, the 18th-round pick, played a key role in the 2023 playoff run before struggling the last two years. He’s a candidate for non-tendering this winter. When the Twins look back on the 2019 class, the results are mixed at best. They hit on some later-round finds and landed players who brought back major league talent through trades, but their first-round pick never materialized. It’s a reminder that the MLB Draft is as unpredictable as the game itself. Some names fade, some resurface in new roles, and a few still find ways to make an impact years later. What stands out about this group? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images On a recent episode of Gleeman and the Geek, Aaron Gleeman and John Bonnes spent time discussing the fallout from Carlos Correa’s trade away from the Twins. Amid the disappointment of his exit, Gleeman raised an interesting notion: that Correa might actually be the best shortstop in Twins history. At first, that sounds bold. But when you look deeper, the argument gains serious traction. Correa’s time in Minnesota was defined by flashes of brilliance, mixed with stretches of frustration. Injuries constantly limited him, including plantar fasciitis, back tightness, and even a concussion, yet he still managed to deliver in some big moments. His steady leadership and clutch hitting helped the Twins snap their postseason misery with a Wild Card win over the Toronto Blue Jays in 2023. Without him, that decades-long playoff losing streak might still hang like a cloud over the franchise. In four seasons with Minnesota, Correa hit .271/.345/.440, with a 118 OPS+ and 10.4 rWAR. That number doesn’t leap off the page compared to the franchise’s all-time WAR leaders at the position (Roy Smalley, Zoilo Versalles, Jorge Polanco, and Greg Gagne), but context matters. Correa accumulated those numbers in fewer than 2,000 plate appearances. All four of those players logged more than 3,500 plate appearances with the Twins, making WAR a measure of longevity as much as value. On a per-game basis, Correa arguably produced at a higher level than any of them. Roy Smalley (20.9 fWAR) Smalley was Minnesota’s steady hand at shortstop through much of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Known for his discipline and switch-hitting ability, Smalley’s 20.9 fWAR remains the highest by a Twins shortstop. In 10 seasons, he hit .262/.350/.401 with a 104 OPS+. He made an All-Star team in 1979, and was one of the first shortstops of his era to blend patience with moderate power. However, he never posted the elite defensive metrics or enjoyed the postseason moments that define Correa’s career. Smalley’s strength was consistency, not dominance. Zoilo Versalles (16.0 fWAR) The first truly great shortstop in franchise history, Versalles was the 1965 AL MVP, leading the AL with a 7.2 rWAR. He was the spark plug for the Twins’ pennant-winning team that year. His blend of power and speed made him one of the most dynamic players of the 1960s. However, his peak was short-lived. After his MVP campaign, his production declined sharply, and he never regained that level of success. Versalles’s legacy is tied to one incredible season, rather than sustained excellence. Jorge Polanco (15.3 fWAR) Polanco began his Twins career as a middle infield prospect and grew into a dependable offensive contributor. His 15.3 fWAR ranks third among Minnesota shortstops, though much of that came while he split time between short and second base. His 2019 All-Star season stands out, but defensive struggles eventually pushed him off shortstop full-time. Polanco is one of the most underrated Twins players of this era, but he didn’t offer the same defensive impact as Correa. Greg Gagne (14.6 fWAR) Gagne’s calling card was defense. He wasn’t flashy with the bat (83 OPS+), but he provided stability and range at a premium position during the Twins’ championship years in 1987 and 1991. His 14.6 fWAR is primarily built on durability and defensive consistency. He never reached Correa’s offensive ceiling, but his steady play helped define an era of Twins baseball that valued reliability over star power. Each of these players left a mark on the Twins in a different way. Smalley was the technician, Versalles the flash of brilliance, Polanco the modern offensive threat, and Gagne the glue guy of two World Series teams. Correa’s story is different, because it was shorter, but more efficient. His offensive rate stats, defensive prowess, and leadership on the field gave the Twins a superstar-caliber shortstop for the first time in decades. Even if his time ended in disappointment and a trade, his impact on the organization’s culture and postseason success is undeniable. Ranking the Top Five Twins Shortstops Roy Smalley – The model of consistency with offensive longevity. Carlos Correa – Strong defense, leadership, and postseason heroics set him apart despite a short tenure. Zoilo Versalles – The only Twins shortstop to win an MVP, but his peak was brief. Greg Gagne – Championship pedigree and steady defense earn him a spot on the list. Jorge Polanco – Productive hitter but limited as a shortstop defensively. Looking at the big picture, shortstop has rarely been a position of enduring strength in Twins history. Few players have combined elite offense and defense over multiple seasons, which makes Correa’s brief run in Minnesota feel even more significant. Even with his exit, his name belongs near the top of the list of the best shortstops to ever wear a Twins uniform. For some fans, that might be a tough reality, but shortstop is a black hole in Twins history. How would your top five list look for the best shortstops in Twins history? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

The Minnesota Twins’ managerial search continues to unfold after the club parted ways with Rocco Baldelli following two straight disappointing seasons. While the Twins evaluate potential replacements, other teams around baseball are finalizing their own hires, narrowing the field of possible candidates. Angels Find Their Man The Los Angeles Angels have officially named Kurt Suzuki as their next manager, ending weeks of speculation about the team’s direction. Suzuki, a former MLB catcher and 2022 retiree, had been working as a special assistant in the Angels’ front office before landing the top job. The move came after a whirlwind few days that saw Albert Pujols emerge as the early favorite. However, according to multiple reports, Pujols and the Angels could not reach an agreement on contract terms or coaching staff decisions. That opened the door for Suzuki, who had also interviewed with the San Francisco Giants earlier this month. While Suzuki has no prior coaching or managerial experience, the Angels believe his leadership qualities and familiarity with the organization make him an ideal fit. Interestingly, former Twins skipper Baldelli was also linked to the opening before Suzuki was officially hired. Baldelli’s availability could make him an appealing option for another team looking to fill a managerial vacancy. Torii Hunter Steps Aside Twins legend Torii Hunter has reportedly withdrawn his name from consideration for Minnesota’s managerial job. According to SKOR North’s Declan Goff, Hunter "did have a conversation with Twins brass about the position," but Hunter "told the Twins he wasn't interested in managing the team." Goff went on to say he isn't sure Hunter's conversation with the Twins was a formal interview, and that he's assuming the talks happened before the Angels hired Suzuki. Hunter, who spent 12 of his 19 big league seasons in Minnesota, remains one of the most beloved players in franchise history. His mix of charisma, defensive brilliance, and leadership made him a fan favorite during his two stints with the Twins. While his name generated buzz among fans hoping for a reunion in the dugout, Hunter prefers a different position at this time. Hunter also interviewed for the Angels’ vacancy before Suzuki was hired, suggesting that teams see his leadership potential even if he isn’t quite ready to make the leap into managing. For the Twins, his decision to step aside means their search will focus elsewhere, potentially toward more experienced or analytically inclined candidates. Scott Servais Enters the Conversation One name that has emerged as a serious possibility is former Seattle Mariners manager Scott Servais. According to La Velle E. Neal III of the Star Tribune, Servais is expected to interview for the Twins’ managerial opening. He represents the most experienced candidate linked to Minnesota’s search so far. Servais managed the Mariners for eight full seasons, guiding the team to its first playoff appearance in over 20 years in 2022. His tenure included several competitive seasons, though Seattle’s inconsistent performance and offensive struggles ultimately led to his dismissal in 2024, with the club sitting at a .500 win-loss record. After parting ways with the Mariners, Servais joined the San Diego Padres’ front office as a special assistant. Given his track record of stabilizing a mid-market club and developing young talent, Servais could be a natural fit for the Twins. Minnesota has a strong foundation of young players like Brooks Lee, Luke Keaschall, and (eventually) Walker Jenkins, so the front office may prefer a veteran leader who has managed through similar roster transitions. What Comes Next The Twins’ search for their next manager appears to be narrowing, though the timeline remains uncertain. With Suzuki off the board and Hunter stepping aside, Minnesota’s front office will likely focus on experienced candidates like Servais or other options around the league. Whoever takes over will inherit a team with postseason aspirations but plenty of questions. The next manager must find a way to spark a talented but inconsistent roster and guide the Twins back to the top of the AL Central. What do you make of the latest news and notes surrounding the team’s managerial opening? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. View full article