Major Twins Ownership Shakeup: Tom Pohlad Replaces Brother Joe in Executive Role

A dramatic leadership change has rocked the Minnesota Twins. Tom Pohlad is stepping down as chairman of the family’s broader business empire. He will now focus solely on leading the baseball team. This move directly replaces his brother, Joe Pohlad, as the organization’s executive chair.

The transition follows a period of intense internal family discussion and declining on-field performance. According to the Minnesota Star Tribune, the decision was emotionally difficult and not initially supported by Joe. The change aims to restore fan trust and financial stability after several rocky seasons.

A Family Decision Amid Team Struggles

Joe Pohlad was named executive chair in late 2022. The team saw postseason success in 2023, breaking a long losing streak. However, the following seasons told a different story.

Payroll was significantly reduced. The 2024 season ended with a second-half collapse and a missed playoff berth. The 2025 season was worse, finishing with one of the worst records in Major League Baseball. Fan frustration grew alongside the team’s debt.

Rebuilding Trust and a Winning Foundation

Tom Pohlad acknowledged the severe challenges in a recent press conference. He stated the organization has not won enough games in recent years. He also admitted the financial foundation was jeopardized and fan trust was lost.

The family concluded that a new leader was needed for the team’s best interest. Tom emphasized the goal is to bring renewed focus and clear direction. He is acutely aware that fans have lost confidence in the family’s ownership.

This major Twins ownership shakeup represents a pivotal moment for the franchise. The Pohlad family is betting on a unified leadership structure to navigate out of current troubles. The ultimate goal is to return championship baseball to Minnesota.

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Why did Joe Pohlad step down?

The move followed internal family reflection on the team’s direction. After missing the playoffs and facing financial pressure, the family decided new leadership was needed for the organization’s best future.

Are the Minnesota Twins for sale?

The team was briefly listed for sale but was later taken off the market. The Pohlads instead brought in three minority partners while retaining majority control.

What happened to the Twins’ payroll?

Team payroll was cut significantly after the 2023 season. This reduction coincided with the team’s decline in performance over the 2024 and 2025 campaigns.

What is Tom Pohlad’s immediate focus?

His sole focus is now the Minnesota Twins. He stepped away from leading the broader Pohlad Companies to bring full-time accountability and a clear new direction to the baseball operations.

How have fans reacted to the ownership?

Tom Pohlad has publicly stated that fans have “lost trust and confidence” in the family. This leadership change is a direct response to that eroded relationship with Twins Territory.