After nearly four decades of ownership, the Minnesota Twins are on the verge of a major change. The Pohlad family, who have owned the MLB franchise since 1984, have announced their decision to explore the sale of the team, marking the end of an era filled with memorable moments and considerable success.
A Legacy of Success
The Twins have been under the stewardship of the Pohlad family since Carl Pohlad purchased the team for a modest sum of $43.5 million. During their tenure, the Twins achieved remarkable successes, most notably winning the World Series championships in 1987 and 1991. These victories not only cemented the Pohlads’ legacy but also brought immense joy to Minnesota fans.
Over the years, the team has consistently competed at a high level, making ten additional postseason appearances. As of the latest Forbes valuations, the franchise is valued at $1.46 billion, a testament to its enduring presence and impact in Major League Baseball.
A Personal Connection
For the Pohlad family, owning the Twins has been more than a business endeavor. Joe Pohlad encapsulated this sentiment, expressing, "For the past 40 seasons, the Minnesota Twins have been part of our family's heart and soul. This team is woven into the fabric of our lives, and the Twins community has become an extension of our family."
This personal connection has underscored their decision to consider selling the team, which was reached after months of thoughtful deliberation. Joe Pohlad shared, "After months of thoughtful consideration, our family reached a decision this summer to explore selling the Twins." It's a move that reflects the family's recognition of both their legacy and the future potential of the franchise.
Engagement with the Community
The Pohlad family has emphasized their commitment to transparency and community engagement throughout this process. "Our goal is to be as informative as possible with the team, staff, and you, the fans," Joe Pohlad stated. "You deserve that, because in so many ways, this team doesn't belong to any one family – it belongs to all of you."
This acknowledgment speaks volumes about their dedication not only to the team but also to the broader community that has supported and cherished the Twins through various seasons. The Twins, based in Minnesota since 1961, have become an integral part of the state's cultural and sports landscape.
Reflecting on the Past, Looking to the Future
The decision to explore a sale is not one taken lightly by the Pohlads. Joe Pohlad reflected on their continuous commitment, saying, "After four decades of commitment, passion, and countless memories, we are looking toward the future with care and intention – for our family, the Twins organization, and this community we love so much."
This forward-looking approach indicates a desire to ensure that the transition preserves the team's stature and community ties. The most recent season saw the Twins posting a respectable 82-80 record, finishing fourth in the AL Central. The balance of past achievements with potential future endeavors makes this a pivotal moment in the organization's storied history.
The exploration of a sale represents a significant phase for the Twins, and it remains to be seen how the transition will unfold. For the Pohlad family, it is both a farewell to their role as owners and a new chapter for a franchise that has been a cherished part of their lives and the Minnesota community.