Were their jobs on the line?
We may never know, but I don’t believe Wolves President of Basketball Operations Tim Connelly or Twins President Derek Falvey had any interest in firing them.
Any manager or coach who loses enough for long enough will be replaced, but both of these front offices pride themselves on organizational stability.
Because of the nature of his job and sport, Finch is constantly seeking strategic edges and ways of motivating his players. Baseball doesn’t quite work that way. The other team isn’t going to alternate between zone and man-to-man defense. The modern manager is charged with massaging the clubhouse atmosphere, keeping open lines of communication throughout the organization, and making in-game decisions consistent with organizational philosophies.
I asked Twins third baseman Royce Lewis what he’s seen from Baldelli this year.
“It’s awesome, playing for Rocco,” Lewis said. “I feel like we have built a better relationship as the years have gone on, which is special. Communication has been the key for our relationship. We continue to talk a few times a week, privately, whether it’s on the field, during BP or in his office. I really like those times, and I think he’s doing a great job as a manager.