Minnesota Twins manager Rocco Baldelli recently announced that he will be taking paternity leave in anticipation of the arrival of his twin boys. After the team’s loss to the Chicago White Sox, Baldelli revealed the exciting news and expressed his gratitude for making it this far into his wife Allie’s pregnancy. The couple, who got married during the All-Star break in 2021, already has a daughter named Louisa.
With Baldelli on paternity leave, bench coach Jayce Tingler will be taking the reins as the team’s interim manager. The Twins, currently leading the AL Central, will be facing the Cincinnati Reds in a three-game series before returning home for a six-game homestand against the Los Angeles Angels.
No Set Return Date
Baldelli, understandably focused on his growing family, has not yet determined when he will be returning to his managerial duties. Taking into consideration his wife’s well-being and the needs of their newborn twins, Baldelli will be on leave until further notice. The team will have the support of Tingler and the coaching staff in his absence.
Rotation Adjustments for the Twins
In terms of the team’s pitching rotation, Baldelli confirmed that right-handers Joe Ryan, Kenta Maeda, and Bailey Ober are currently slated as the starting pitchers for the upcoming series against the Reds. However, there will be a change in the bullpen as left-hander Dallas Keuchel will be temporarily transitioning to a relief role. The decision comes after Keuchel’s recent struggles with an 8.03 ERA in three September starts.
Baldelli acknowledged that the rotation may undergo further changes as the regular season progresses. With five current starters in the rotation, it is possible that the Twins will make adjustments based on performance or other factors. The team’s ultimate goal is to ensure the strongest pitching lineup as they strive for success in the postseason.
Rocco Baldelli’s decision to take paternity leave highlights the importance of family and work-life balance. As he eagerly awaits the arrival of his twin boys, the Twins will temporarily be under the leadership of Jayce Tingler. With a busy schedule ahead, including a series against the Reds and a homestand against the Angels, the team will need to make adjustments to their pitching rotation. While the specific return date for Baldelli remains uncertain, the Twins will continue to adapt and strive towards their goals in his absence.
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