John Bonnes

The damage to the franchise was the lack of response to the 2023 season--their lack of foresight that the Twins might be good enough to compete on a yearly basis. The long-term decision to cut the payroll in 2024 was not a spur-of-the-moment choice the Polads made. While the cuts in payroll went against most marketing schemes, it was obvious that it was part of the plan to sell a team that was unencumbered by a complex player relationship and salaries. The popularity of 2024 and 2025 showed an unpopular reaction and damaged the value of the franchise. For 15 million   (or so),   the Twins could be 3 three-time division champs and a much more valuable commodity.