Minnesota Twins’ New Owner Admits Major Payroll Cuts Were a Mistake

Tom Pohlad is the new controlling owner of the Minnesota Twins. He was announced on Wednesday. The leadership change comes after two disappointing seasons for the franchise.

Pohlad immediately addressed a major source of fan anger. He admitted the family’s decision to slash payroll was wrong. This candor marks a clear effort to rebuild trust.

Owning a Failed “Right-Sizing” Strategy

The Twins had a successful 2023 season. They ended a long playoff losing streak. The team’s payroll was around $155 million that year.

Despite this momentum, ownership cut payroll by $30 million for 2024. Joe Pohlad, the previous operator, called it “right-sizing” the business. According to WCCO, Tom Pohlad now calls that decision a significant error.

He says it damaged the team’s brand and fan confidence. The move deflated the fan base after a playoff high. The Twins missed the postseason in both 2024 and 2025.

A Path Forward with New Investment

Pohlad declined to name a specific payroll figure for 2026. The budget is expected to remain lower than past peaks. It currently sits near $100 million after the Josh Bell signing.

However, Pohlad emphasized a renewed focus on winning. He stated the family is not in baseball to pocket profits. The goal is to reinvest every possible dollar into the team.

The organization has brought on three new minority investors. This influx of capital is intended to help pursue a championship. The message is a direct shift from previous “right-sizing” rhetoric.

The admission from Twins ownership is a stark reversal. It directly addresses the core of fan discontent over the past two years. The challenge now is turning that acknowledgment into a competitive team on the field.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: Who is the new Twins controlling owner?

Tom Pohlad is the new controlling owner. He is taking over the role from his brother, Joe Pohlad. The announcement was made on Wednesday.

Q2: What mistake did he admit to?

He admitted that cutting payroll after the 2023 season was wrong. The decision hurt fan trust and the team’s brand. He said they “sucked the air right out of our fan base.”

Q3: How much was the payroll cut?

Payroll was reduced by roughly $30 million. It went from about $155 million in 2023 to a lower figure for 2024. The term “right-sizing” was used to describe the cut at the time.

Q4: What is the payroll for the 2026 season?

An exact number was not provided. It is expected to be lower than recent highs. The current figure is near $100 million and will increase with more signings.

Q5: Why did the ownership group bring in new investors?

They added three minority partners to strengthen finances. The goal is to provide more resources to build a winner. Pohlad stated every dollar made should go back into the team.