The rich get richer. On the same day that the Los Angeles Dodgers signed star closer Edwin Diaz, they also beefed up their front office. According to Bobby Nightengale's report in The Star Tribune, Los Angeles hired former Twins manager Rocco Baldelli to a position within the front office.
Baldelli was fired by Minnesota at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, which saw the Twins go 70-92. It was Baldelli's seventh season as manager, but he quickly landed on his feet.
Dodgers swoop in to add former Twins manager Rocco Baldelli to organization's staff
Former Twins manager Rocco Baldelli is joining the Dodgers organization pic.twitter.com/7Zq2S9OXpA
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) December 9, 2025
Baldelli was allegedly drawing interest from several clubs following his exit from the Twins, so it doesn't come to a surprise that the two-time reigning World Series champions nabbed him. The surprising addition becomes less murky due to Baldelli's history with Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman. Baldelli worked with Friedman in Tampa Bay following the conclusion of his playing career, so the foundation of that relationship is already there.
Baldelli, 44, brings in the perfect combination of experience and age. He played for seven seasons as a Major Leaguer, but his resume goes much deeper. He led the Twins to an overall record above .500, and his youth suggests that he is open to the newer nuances of the game to help players develop.
Baldelli deserved to land on his feet, but it stings a little bit to see him go to Los Angeles. The organization is already basking in their glory, so to add a winning former manager to the staff is just another hit to absorb.
The Winter Meetings have been a whirlwind for Twins fans, although not much has technically happened internally. On top of Baldelli going to the Dodgers, Byron Buxton was reported to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic in 2026. It doesn't necessarily benefit the Twins, but it will help build Buxton's brand - and deservingly so.