Twins Hire Former Pirates Skipper as Next Manager

Report: Twins Hire Derek Shelton as New Manager

Shelton’s Past

Shelton, 55, was dismissed by the Pirates in May after the team stumbled to a 12–26 start. While the record reflected the organization’s struggles, Shelton was hardly the problem. Pittsburgh’s front office failed to meaningfully invest in its roster, leaving him to shoulder the blame for shortcomings beyond his control.

Before his stint in Pittsburgh, Shelton served as the Twins’ bench coach from 2017 to 2019 under both Paul Molitor and Rocco Baldelli. During that time, Minnesota reached the postseason in two of three seasons, though each run ended in the first round at the hands of the New York Yankees. The 2019 Twins, known as the “Bomba Squad,” led baseball in home runs and entered the American League Division Series as an offensive powerhouse, even if they couldn’t break through in October.

Shelton’s Managerial Style

During his time in Pittsburgh, Shelton earned a reputation as an energetic communicator and leader who connected naturally with both veterans and young players. That skill set should serve him well in Minnesota, where the 2026 roster will feature a wave of developing talent as the organization embarks on the early stages of a rebuild.

Shelton’s strength lies in his ability to blend analytics with traditional coaching, turning scouting data into clear, actionable advice for players. For a young, evolving roster, that balance is invaluable. Also, his previous familiarity with the Twins organization only strengthens the fit.

Equally significant is the presence of Byron Buxton, the team’s clubhouse leader and one of Shelton’s former players. Buxton’s respect for Shelton and established leadership should help ease the transition in managerial voice and clubhouse culture.

Looking Ahead

Now, Shelton leaves behind a Pirates franchise that never fully committed to supporting its roster and joins a Twins organization more willing to invest in long-term success. As Minnesota rebuilds, Shelton’s experience, communication skills, and history with the team make him an ideal choice to guide the next phase of the franchise’s growth.