Joe Pohlad, the CEO of the Minnesota Twins, has dismissed the idea of the team making a big splash in the free-agent market, dashing hopes of fans expecting a major signing. Pohlad stated in an interview with WCCO radio that the Twins are not pursuing the top free agents currently available, often referred to as the “Boras Four,” who are clients of prominent agent Scott Boras. These players include third baseman Matt Chapman, left-handed pitchers Blake Snell and Jordan Montgomery, and center fielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger. Pohlad indicated that the team is focusing on other players who can still make a positive impact.
The Twins, who had a record-high payroll in 2023, have been looking to cut costs this winter, partly due to uncertainties surrounding their television rights broadcast deal. Despite making the playoffs last season for the first time in over two decades, the organization is facing financial challenges. Pohlad mentioned that there are different ways to succeed in today’s game, citing examples like the Tampa Bay Rays and the Baltimore Orioles, who have achieved success with lower payrolls by investing in other areas of their business.
The Twins’ television deal with Bally Sports North expired at the end of the 2023 season, leading to a legal dispute after Diamond Sports Group, the network’s owner, filed for bankruptcy. The Twins eventually reached a one-year deal with Bally Sports North in early February to continue airing their games in 2024. Pohlad emphasized that while the team remains open to opportunities, they are not willing to spend excessively on players at the moment. He stated that the team does not have a fixed budget but is not looking to make a $30 million player acquisition at this time.
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