The Minnesota Twins find themselves under heavy criticism after back-to-back offseasons of payroll cuts, leaving fans questioning the team’s commitment to winning. After coming off their first postseason series win in two decades, the Twins’ decision to reduce spending has sparked outrage, especially as rival teams in the American League Central position themselves to improve.

Ownership, led by the Pohlad family, has drawn ire for failing to build on 2023’s playoff success. After spending $160 million just three years ago, the Twins have slashed payroll by $30 million, reportedly setting it at around $135 million for 2025. This abrupt regression stands in stark contrast to fans’ expectations following last season’s momentum. Critics argue that maintaining spending—or even modestly increasing it—could have solidified the Twins’ position atop a winnable division.

Minnesota Twins’ momentum lost after rare postseason success

In a recent Foul Territory X post, Aaron Gleeman breaks down the Twins payroll situation. He said Derek Falvey, the Twins’ President of Baseball Operations, has faced the brunt of public frustration despite his limited control over payroll decisions. Operating within tight financial restrictions, Falvey built a competitive roster in 2023, leading the team to a division title and postseason success. However, he now faces the unenviable task of subtracting pieces before adding new talent, a reality dictated by ownership’s imposed ceiling. Add this season’s performance to the mix, and the criticism increases manifold.

He said, “Derek Falvey is gonna get the criticism when they don’t make a move ’cause he is the public facing front office boss but the reality is that they have a $135 million payroll let’s say right now and right now the roster is at $140. What is he supposed to do? You have to subtract in order to add.”

He added, “And I think part of the problem and the reason they are so hamstrung from a roster standpoint is just not the slashing of the payroll that hurts, which it does, it’s the slashing of the peril after you allowed…company to sign $160 million worth of players including some long-term deals like Byron Buxton, Carlos Correa and Pablo Lopez.”

It is natural for any payroll related discussion to start with the list of guaranteed salaries and this is where the Twins find themselves in the hot spot. For 2025, they have two-free agents deals and four contract extensions. Have a look for yourself: Carlos Correa comes in $36.0 million; Pablo Lopex at $21.5 million, Byron Buxton at $15 million; Christian Vazquez at $10 million; Chris Paddack at $7.5 million and Randy Dobnak at $3.0 million. That’s a total of $93 million in spending!

Now the problem arises that once we looking at the $130 million budget, the first three players take up about 56% of the payroll. This then leaves just $57.5 million to fill other 23 spots on the roster. And the question arises: is it enough to bag talent that can contribute to better performance for the season?

Adding to the frustration is the broader context of MLB’s shifting landscape. Teams like the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians appear poised to spend and challenge for the AL Central crown. Meanwhile, mid-market franchises like the Texas Rangers and Arizona Diamondbacks have demonstrated the impact of aggressive investment. The Minnesota Twins, once seen as a potential perennial contender, now risk falling behind in both perception and performance.

Fans also reject excuses about declining revenues, including the regional sports network struggles tied to Bally Sports. Attendance at Target Field remains robust, merchandise sales are strong, and local television ratings reflect consistent interest. The argument that Minnesota’s market size demands caution fails to resonate when larger payrolls were sustained in the past.

Speculation over a potential sale of the franchise further clouds the issue. While the Pohlads have remained tight-lipped, insiders suggest ownership may be prioritizing short-term profits to maximize the team’s valuation. Reportedly, there are quite a few bidders involved, wherein the interest ranges both from the local areas to a place as far as California. Allen & Company, the investment firm handling the sale, has received calls from potential owners and they are in touch for the same.

However, more definite numbers are expected to float in in the coming week. Meanwhile, Forbes has given its valuation of the franchise at $1.46 billion while Sportico is estimating it at $1.7 billion.

But is there anything that can be done for the Minnesota Twins to be back in contention?

What would it take to contend again?

To regain their status as competitors in the league’s rankings, the Minnesota Twins must ensure more investment. Increasing spending to match the average across the league standing around $180 million is a necessary initial move. With more financial support, the team would be able to focus on fixing evident areas of improvement, like strengthening the starting pitching rotation or bringing in a dependable hitter, for the middle of their batting order to support the existing core players. Making aggressive moves in agency or trades could establish the Twins as the frontrunners in the AL Central division since their competitors are striving to narrow the distance between them.

Equally important is maximizing the prime years of key players like Carlos Correa and Royce Lewis, while continuing to develop young talent. A balanced approach, combining veteran reinforcements with homegrown prospects, could build a sustainable pipeline for success. The Twins already proved in 2023 they can compete when the pieces align, but to contend consistently, ownership must demonstrate a willingness to invest in the roster. Without this commitment, the team risks losing momentum and squandering the promise of its recent progress.

As frustration mounts, the Minnesota Twins risk squandering goodwill from their loyal fan base. What should have been a celebratory era for the franchise instead feels like a missed opportunity. A renewed commitment to spending and success is crucial to avoid squandering this pivotal moment.