Since succeeding his younger brother Joe as the Twins' executive chair, Tom Pohlad has made some refreshing comments, acknowledging the Twins made a mistake by slashing payroll by $30 million after the 2023 season, in which Minnesota won its first playoff series in 21 years. Additionally, by "mutually" parting ways with Derek Falvey (although the timing was odd), he wants to show fans that positive change is on the horizon. He also said, "we will be competitive in 2026," during a virtual press conference after the shocking Falvey news.
However, while the Twins have plenty of talent and could make the playoffs this year, they're clearly not putting themselves in the best position to return to the postseason. Largely due to the stunning trade deadline fire sale, Minnesota's payroll to begin the 2026 season will be even lower than it was last season.
Twins fans frustrated after Tom Pohlad's tone-deaf comment regarding payroll
“Yes, our payroll is down from last year,” Tom Pohlad told reporters, including The Minnesota Star Tribune's (subscription required) Bobby Nightengale, during the virtual press conference. “I think there are still some investments to be made between now and Opening Day. I’d also say, at some point, I’d love to get off this payroll thing for a second. Let’s judge the success of this year on wins and losses, and on whether we’re playing meaningful baseball in September.”
It almost seemed like Pohlad was annoyed he was asked about the team's payroll situation. His response was completely tone-deaf. Minnesota fans will obviously be happy if the Twins are playing meaningful baseball in September. However, there is no reason to believe that they will be. By judging the Twins' success over the last two seasons by wins and losses, the Twins completely failed, primarily due to a lack of spending.
Twins can make playoffs in 2026, but they aren't putting themselves in best position to do so
Sure, the Twins have many exciting prospects who should be in the big leagues at some point next year. Outfielders Walker Jenkins and Emmanuel Rodríguez and infielder Kaelen Culpepper all appear poised to make the jump to the big leagues soon. Still, there's no guarantee those guys will succeed at the next level, especially immediately upon making their debuts. If Pohlad was really serious about being competitive in 2026, he would've had the front office make some big free agent signings.
Not to say Josh Bell, Victor Caratini, Taylor Rogers and others aren't solid offseason additions, but they aren't big impact acquisitions. Signing a marquee free agent or trading for a star would prove to fans that the Twins are actually serious about returning to the playoffs. Most of the top free agents are off the market now, and a big trade is still possible, but unlikely. We'll judge the 2026 season by wins and losses when the time comes, but for now, it's fair to judge the Twins for reducing payroll.