As the Twins closed Target Field for 2014 with a fourth straight 90-loss season, questions about the futures of Twins manager Ron Gardenhire and general manager Terry Ryan are circulating.
Both sound like they would like to return to the team in 2015.
According to the Star Tribune, the job status of both Ryan and Gardenhire will be determined once the season ends on Sunday.
Four straight 90-loss seasons have taken their toll on both Ryan and Gardenhire, and both have come under criticism during the latter stages of another disappointing season.
Ryan was diagnosed with cancer eight months ago, but he’s undergone treatment and has been more involved in the operations of the club lately. He was clear with reporters on Wednesday that if he isn’t back, it won’t be because of his health.
“I’m feeling pretty good. I’m doing quite well, actually,” Ryan told the Star Tribune.
Gardenhire is finishing his 13th season managing the Twins, and has a career record of 1066-1037 with the team. During that time he has won six American League Central Division Championships. But over the last four seasons, the Pioneer Press notes, Gardenhire’s record has dipped to 263-381.
According to FOX Sports Net, the two will discuss the future of the team during their four-game trip to Detroit. Those conversations could also include changes to Gardenhire’s coaching staff.
“The last road trip we usually get together and discuss what went right and what went wrong,” Ryan said to Twins MLB.com blogger Rhett Bollinger. “We’ll plan for the future.”
Ultimately the decision will come down to Ryan and Twins owner Jim Pohlad, but Gardenhire is clear that he wants to remain with the Twins.
“I’ve always said this is my home,” Gardenhire said “It’s where I like it. I love the organization. I love this area. The whole package. Why wouldn’t you want to be here? This is as good as it gets. But I’m for whatever’s best for the organization too.”
Gardenhire signed a two-year contract extension after last season that will take him through the 2015 season.
