Twins Prepare for Offseason Changes: Managerial Search and Trades Ahead

The Minnesota Twins are poised for a transformative offseason following the conclusion of the Major League Baseball (MLB) regular season. With the team missing the playoffs, significant changes are expected, including a managerial search and potential roster adjustments. This article outlines key developments and what fans can anticipate over the coming months.

Managerial Search and Coaching Staff Revisions

The Twins are actively pursuing a new manager after parting ways with Rocco Baldelli, who led the team for seven seasons. According to sources familiar with the situation, the organization is interviewing several candidates, including James Rowson, the hitting coach for the New York Yankees, former Pittsburgh Pirates manager Derek Shelton, and Ramón Vázquez, the bench coach for the Boston Red Sox. The new manager will play a crucial role in assembling a revamped coaching staff, and the search may conclude within weeks.

As November approaches, attention will also turn to the MLB awards. Of particular interest to Twins fans is center fielder Byron Buxton, who is in contention for a significant bonus. If he finishes between sixth and tenth in the American League Most Valuable Player race, he stands to earn an additional $3 million based on his performance metrics, including a strong 5.0 fWAR this season.

Draft Lottery and Player Transactions

The annual MLB winter meetings in December will be a focal point for the Twins, particularly regarding the draft lottery. Following a season that saw them finish with one of the four worst records, the Twins have an enhanced chance of securing the top overall pick in the 2026 draft, with a probability of 22.18 percent. This scenario is further complicated by the inactivity of the Colorado Rockies and Washington Nationals, who are ineligible for a lottery pick this year.

The offseason will also see the Twins reassess their roster. After an active trade deadline, the team may look to make further moves. Starting pitchers Pablo López and Joe Ryan could be valuable trade assets if the team opts for a rebuild. Alternatively, the Twins might retain them to form a competitive rotation for the upcoming season. Trades can commence shortly after the World Series concludes, with free agency opening five days post-Fall Classic.

The team currently has one notable free agent in veteran catcher Christian Vázquez, who faced challenges this season due to a shoulder infection. His return for the final week of the season capped off a three-year contract worth $30 million.

Decisions loom regarding several players, particularly regarding reliever Justin Topa, who has a $2 million club option that the Twins must decide on within five days after the World Series. Other arbitration-eligible players, including Trevor Larnach, will also require careful consideration as the organization evaluates its future direction.

As the offseason progresses, the Twins’ management faces critical decisions that will shape the team’s trajectory. With a new manager on the horizon and potential roster changes, fans will be closely monitoring developments as the organization aims to return to competitive form.