In a stunning turn of events, the Minnesota Twins have parted ways with manager Rocco Baldelli. This decision follows a tumultuous stretch run in which the Twins, once poised for a postseason berth, saw their fortunes collapse due to a combination of bullpen struggles, key injuries, and inconsistent hitting.
Baldelli, who had guided the Twins since 2019, including winning AL Manager of the Year in his debut season, faced mounting pressure as the team faltered down the stretch in 2024. After a promising start to the season, Minnesota’s bullpen woes and questionable managerial decisions became focal points of criticism. Baldelli’s handling of pitchers, particularly his choice to lift starters early in critical games, was scrutinized by both fans and analysts. For instance, pulling Bailey Ober after just 83 pitches in a crucial September game against Kansas City backfired when the bullpen gave up the lead.
The Twins’ front office is now looking for new leadership, with several potential candidates on the horizon. Toby Gardenhire, the son of former Twins manager Ron Gardenhire and the current manager of the Twins’ Triple-A affiliate, is considered a strong internal option. Meanwhile, A.J. Pierzynski, a former Twins catcher turned broadcaster, has expressed interest in managing at the MLB level, though he lacks managerial experience. Other possibilities include seasoned candidates like Terry Francona.
Baldelli’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the Twins, and the team will need to regroup quickly to avoid another missed playoff opportunity. The next manager will inherit a talented, but underperforming roster that needs rejuvenation heading into the 2025 season.
It wasn’t an easy offseason for the Minnesota Twins. They had to say goodbye to their star catcher of 15 years, Joe Mauer, as he retired. Twins EVP and Chief Baseball Officer, Derek Falvey knew he had to make a managerial change, so when he fired Hall of Famer Paul Molitor, it was paramount to find the perfect replacement manager. He was searching for someone who could connect with players and had strong leadership skills.
Falvey had a good relationship with Rays manager Kevin Cash, who raved about Rocco Baldelli’s leadership skills and impact he had on their young players. After Baldelli’s playing career with the Rays, he stayed on as a special assistant from 2011-14, first base coach from 2015-17, and a field coordinator in 2018. Based on his experience and a strong recommendation from Cash, Falvey hired Baldelli as the new manager of the Minnesota Twins.
