The Minnesota Twins have dismissed manager Rocco Baldelli following a challenging season marked by losing more than 90 games for the first time since 2016. This decision comes despite the organization affirming their confidence in Baldelli by exercising a club option for the 2026 season last offseason.
Derek Falvey, the Twins’ president of baseball operations, acknowledged Baldelli’s significant contributions and partnership over the past seven years. Expressing pride in shared accomplishments, Falvey nonetheless recognized the need for a change in leadership to better position the team for future success.
Owner Joe Pohlad echoed this sentiment, highlighting Baldelli’s professionalism and his dedication to both players and the organization. Pohlad emphasized that the decision was difficult, reflecting the respect held for Baldelli, and wished him and his family well.
The Twins concluded their season with a 70-92 record, their worst performance since 2016. Although the team was competitively average mid-season, with a 51-57 record at the trade deadline, sweeping changes saw them trading away key players, leading to a 19-35 record thereafter—second worst in the league for that period.
Despite this season’s struggles, Baldelli has seen notable successes during his tenure. The Twins secured postseason appearances under his leadership in 2019, 2020, and 2023, even winning their first postseason series since 2002. Over seven seasons, Baldelli’s Twins compiled a 527-505 record, capturing three AL Central titles.
The Twins’ decision to part ways with Baldelli comes amid broader organizational changes. The Pohlad family recently stated they would retain ownership of the Twins and indicated plans for continued rebuilding, possibly signaling further trades and budget cuts.
Baldelli’s departure marks him as the second MLB manager to be dismissed on the same day, following Bob Melvin’s exit from the San Francisco Giants. As the offseason progresses, the Twins, along with teams like the Giants, Orioles, Rockies, and Nationals, are actively seeking new management to guide them in future pursuits.