Rumored fan favorite managerial candidate not interested in Twins' manager vacancy

Can't blame him to be honest...
Arizona Diamondbacks v Minnesota Twins
Arizona Diamondbacks v Minnesota Twins | Hannah Foslien/GettyImages

Torii Hunter not interested in managing Twins

Twins legend Torii Hunter not only won't be managing the Los Angeles Angels in 2026, but he also most likely won't be managing the Minnesota Twins despite being rumored as a candidate for the opening.

SKOR North's Declan Goff confirmed on Tuesday that Hunter spoke with the Twins brass about the open manager position, and Hunter informed the Twins that he is not interested in the role.

Twins fans should also keep in mind that Hunter was a candidate for the Angels' manager vacancy, but Los Angeles decided not to hire Hunter in favor of Kurt Suzuki. Therefore, Hunter may have a change of heart about the Twins' manager role, since he didn't get the Angels' job.

That is unlikely, however, as Hunter's original word probably still holds true today. But we never know!

It makes sense why Hunter wouldn't be interested in the Twins' manager job despite his history with the organization. First, rumors have suggested that Hunter left the Twins on bad terms after serving as a special assistant with the team from 2019-23. Second, Hunter has worked as a special assistant to Angels general manager Perry Minasiansince 2024. Hunter and his family live in Los Angeles, and they would likely rather stay in a warm state like California year-round than live in Minnesota for most of the year.

Another big reason Hunter may not want to manage the Twins is the public perception of the owners and front office. In 2023, the Twins won their first playoff series in 21 seasons. Yet, the Pohlads decided to cut payroll by over $30 million the following year, which led to the team missing the playoffs that season despite projections giving them over a 90% chance at making the postseason in August. Then, in 2025, the team spent just $10.25 million on MLB free agents and ended up in a bad spot at the trade deadline, leading to a fire sale that saw 10 players from the team's major league roster be traded. Why would Hunter want to manage a team with owners who don't seem to prioritize winning?

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