Shelton Again a Twins Managerial Candidate?

It's always fascinating to watch the inner workings of baseball front offices, especially when a managerial position opens up. The Minnesota Twins have been in the midst of their search to replace Rocco Baldelli, and it seems they're narrowing down their choices. We're hearing whispers that former Pittsburgh Pirates manager Derek Shelton is once again in the conversation for a managerial role, this time with the Twins. This isn't entirely new territory for Shelton, as he was a finalist for the Twins' job back in 2018, before Baldelli was hired. He was a familiar face then, having served as bench coach, and was part of that successful 2019 team.

As reported by MLB Trade Rumors, Shelton managed the Pirates for over five seasons, with a record of 306 wins and 440 losses. He was ultimately dismissed mid-way through the 2025 season after the team's slow start. The reports indicate that the Twins are looking for someone they know, and Shelton certainly fits that bill. His previous tenure with the club, working alongside current leadership like President Derek Falvey, could give him an edge.

The other names in contention are also noteworthy. We're seeing former Seattle Mariners manager Scott Servais, current Yankees hitting coach James Rowson, and Cubs bench coach Ryan Flaherty also being considered. Rowson, in particular, has ties to the Twins' "Bomba Squad" era, where he served as hitting coach during their record-breaking home run season in 2019. It’s a tough decision, no doubt, with each candidate bringing their own unique experience and perspectives to the table.

Ultimately, whoever the Twins choose will inherit a team with some promising young talent, like Byron Buxton, but also facing the challenge of rebuilding their bullpen after some significant trades. It makes you wonder what the key criteria will be for this hire. Will it be a proven track record, familiarity with the organization, or something else entirely?