Twins Part Ways with Manager Rocco Baldelli After Tumultuous Season
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – September 29, 2025 – In a move signaling a significant shift for the franchise, the Minnesota Twins have announced the firing of manager Rocco Baldelli. The decision comes after a 70-92 season characterized by a dramatic mid-season roster teardown and a steep decline in fan engagement, marking a stark contrast to the team’s recent successes. This is breaking news for baseball fans and a critical moment for the Twins organization.
Roster Dismantling and On-Field Struggles
The Twins’ 2025 campaign took a sharp turn for the worse following a disappointing June and July. Faced with a faltering team, the front office initiated a substantial overhaul at the trade deadline, parting ways with key players including star shortstop Carlos Correa and closer Jhoan Durán. The resulting roster left Baldelli and his coaching staff with limited options down the stretch, culminating in a dismal 19-35 record post-deadline – the second-worst performance in MLB during that period, trailing only the Colorado Rockies. This aggressive move, while intended to rebuild, ultimately contributed to the team’s worst record since 2016.
A Legacy of Division Titles Overshadowed by Recent Decline
Baldelli’s seven-year tenure with the Twins wasn’t without its highlights. He guided the team to three American League Central division titles, including a memorable 87-75 season in 2023 that saw them win their first playoff series in 21 years. However, the team’s late-season collapse in 2023 (12-27 in the final six weeks) foreshadowed the struggles to come. Over the last 201 games, the Twins have posted a concerning 82-119 record, a .408 winning percentage that clearly prompted the ownership to make a change. The team’s recent performance is a cautionary tale in baseball, demonstrating how quickly fortunes can change.
Fan Discontent and Ownership Stability
The on-field struggles were mirrored by a noticeable drop in attendance at Target Field. The Twins drew just over 1.7 million fans in 81 home games, the lowest figure in a non-pandemic season since 2000. This decline wasn’t simply a reflection of the team’s performance; it was fueled by growing frustration among fans regarding perceived cost-cutting measures by the Pohlad family, the team’s ownership group. While the franchise was briefly put up for sale last year, the Pohlad family ultimately decided to retain control, securing new investment to alleviate debt. This decision, while providing financial stability, hasn’t yet quelled the concerns of a passionate fanbase.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for the Twins
Twins President of Baseball Operations Derek Falvey, who replaced Terry Ryan in 2016, acknowledged Baldelli’s contributions in a statement, emphasizing their shared commitment to the organization. However, Falvey also indicated the need for a fresh direction. Despite the challenges, bright spots emerged this season, with outfielder Byron Buxton providing consistent offensive production and rookie Luke Keaschall demonstrating promising potential. The Twins now embark on a search for a new manager who can navigate the complexities of a rebuilding roster and restore the team’s competitive edge. The next manager will face the challenge of rebuilding trust with a disillusioned fanbase and capitalizing on the recent influx of investment. The Twins’ future hinges on finding a leader who can effectively blend youth development with veteran leadership, and reignite the passion within the Twin Cities baseball community. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of the Twins’ managerial search and the latest MLB news.
