Twins owner reveals ‘investment’ plan to win back fans

The Minnesota Twins (46-48) trail the first-place Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Guardians by two games in the American League Central and are just one game clear of the Seattle Mariners for the final Wild Card slot, but Target Field does not reflect this optimistic set of circumstances. The franchise ranks 25th in MLB attendance, averaging less than 21,000 fans per game this season, according to ESPN. The organization is obviously aware of the problem, and it is choosing to publicly address it.

Tom Pohlad, who officially took over as controlling owner last December, issued a firm declaration amid the franchise’s modest spending philosophy and the public’s declining interest.

“This is a build and they will come situation,” he said, per Dan Hayes of The Athletic. “The fans are not going to come back based on words. They’re going to come back once they see investment in the team and success on the field.”

Considering he has been running the ballclub for less than a year, one can argue that Pohlad deserves the benefit of the doubt. His surname has severed considerable trust in this city, however. Until Minnesota makes an undeniable effort to build a World Series contender, fans will remain skeptical.

The Twins opted to shed payroll a couple of years ago and currently hover around $100 million, ranking in the bottom third of baseball. Yes, the Tampa Bay Rays, St. Louis Cardinals and Miami Marlins are all finding success with an even smaller payroll, but this model does not seem ideal for a Minnesota roster that has plenty of needs, namely in the bullpen.

The Twins’ relief unit is arguably the worst in MLB today. If Tom Pohlad is serious about affecting actual change, fans will want to see general manager Jeremy Zoll get aggressive at the Aug. 3 trade deadline. Tommy Nance alone will not suffice.

The proclamation has been made. Now, it is time to act.