twinssporto

I was in the micro phish (SP?) era. Was that before or after you?

I'll probably get run outta here on a rail, but honestly, if his arbitration is $5mm or so I say keep him but be ready to move on quickly. He probably belongs at 2nd base as well. The guy is an athlete, and when he is on, he really is on. The streaky hitting makes me nuts, though...

I understand the skepticism. The family still has majority ownership of the team, and changing the person at the top doesn’t automatically mean a change in philosophy. But it doesn’t mean the leadership change is meaningless, either. Having owned and operated businesses, I’ve seen how different leaders can set different priorities, even within the same ownership structure. Family businesses aren’t always of one mind. Neither of us knows exactly how much authority Tom has or how those internal decisions are being made. I also don't think you can fairly criticize his first year. When did he take over? February or March? I’m not arguing that he’s earned unquestioning trust; I’m arguing that he deserves to be judged on his own decisions and follow-through. Calling him a figurehead assumes the very thing we’re debating. This offseason is an opportunity to show whether his stated intentions translate into meaningful action. If they don’t, criticism is warranted. My optimism isn’t a blank check, it’s a willingness to give him a reasonable chance. I'll bow out after this post. Go Twins in 2027!

This is spot on. I understand the frustration with Twins ownership, but I think Tom Pohlad deserves the opportunity to establish his own record. Sharing a last name doesn’t mean sharing the same leadership style or priorities as his brother. Having owned and operated several businesses, I know meaningful change takes more than a new person at the top. It takes clear direction, difficult decisions, and follow-through. My impression is that Tom is sincere and taking steps in the right direction. Ultimately, his actions will determine whether that confidence is justified. I’m also putting my money where my mouth is: I bought season tickets for 2027. First time in 7 years, actually. Fingers crossed that any lockout is short. I'm excited that the young guys have been promoted and more excited to watch them play next year. This team has real talent, both on the mound and in the field. There are needs to address, and this offseason will tell us plenty about ownership’s commitment. But let’s give Tom a chance to demonstrate that commitment before reaching for the pitchforks. Accountability is fair. A verdict before he’s had a reasonable chance to lead is premature.

That’s quite a leap from what I actually said. I didn’t say good vibes matter more than winning. I said the quality of the clubhouse is one factor in evaluating a manager, and the manager deserves some credit when a respected player calls it the best clubhouse he’s ever been involved with.. Shelton should absolutely be judged on wins and losses. But pretending leadership, trust, and clubhouse culture have nothing to do with winning is a pretty shallow way to evaluate a manager.

Gotta start somewhere. This team is way more enjoyable to watch than last year's team. Even before the trade deadline selloff.

I had a nice conversation with Pablo Lopez a couple of weeks ago (thought about writing about it on TD, but didn't). I asked him specifically about the vibe in the clubhouse. He said this year was the best clubhouse he's ever been associated with. The manager has a lot to do with that. P.S. Pablo is a fantastic human being.

I've watched the kid play twice now at the ballpark (love calling rookies kids)....Based on what I've seen, the kid is a gamer. Still a little hesitant at SS, but I think that's just adjusting to a new environment, etc. The fact that he went 3-4 the other day is huge. Great confidence builder too. I'm encouraged by what I've seen so far.

I absolutely loved the bunts!!!! I thoroughly enjoy watching this team play.

We had the game on in the office, and I told everyone watching the 9th inning that KC's manager was nuts to pull their starter. When Kody hit that homer, everyone went nuts! Great day!

Great pick! Huge win for us. This is the guy I wanted from day one.

I actually enjoy watching this team now. It feels like they are a team of scrappers and have some heart. By the way, the Twins have one of the highest-scoring offenses in the American League right now. The starting pitching, even with the injuries, has been a surprising positive. Bullpen....crap. Overall, better than I expected. I think Shelton has helped out a lot too.

Winning puts asses in the seats. Very simple formula for selling tickets.

I was thinking the same thing. Shelton is a breath of fresh air after Rocco. He just puts off a better demeanor.

Mauer was 20 years old when he came up....Let's go, Tait!