### Disappointing Finish Prompts Coaching Overhaul for Twins

The Minnesota Twins, reeling from a late-season slump that cost them a playoff berth, have responded with major changes to their coaching staff. On Wednesday, the team announced that four members of Manager Rocco Baldelli's staff will not return for the 2025 season.

Hitting coach David Popkins, assistant hitting coaches Derek Shomon and Rudy Hernandez, and infield coach Tony Diaz were all let go following the Twins' disappointing finish. The decision comes after a significant drop in performance during the final six weeks of the season, where the team managed a mere .228 batting average and a 12-27 record in their last 39 games, averaging just 3.6 runs per game.

Tony Diaz, 47, has been a key figure on Baldelli's staff since its formation in 2019. Initially serving as the third-base coach, Diaz was promoted to assistant bench coach and infield coach in 2022. His responsibilities included pre-game preparation with infielders, focusing on fielding ground balls and short-hops.

Rudy Hernandez, 59, has an extensive history with the Twins, joining the organization in 1996. He began his career as an instructor at the team's Venezuelan academy and has since coached at four different minor league levels. Hernandez was promoted to the major league staff six seasons ago, originally serving as a chief assistant to hitting coach James Towson.

David Popkins, 34, was recruited from the Dodgers organization three years ago with a vision to integrate new technological approaches to hitting. Under his guidance, the Twins hit an impressive 233 home runs last season, tying for the American League lead. However, the team's inconsistency at the plate this year proved to be their downfall.

Derek Shomon, also 34, joined the coaching staff two years ago. He came from coaching assignments at Class A Fort Myers and Class AA Wichita, where he served as a hitting coach.

As the Twins look to reassemble their coaching staff, these changes mark a significant shift in their strategy, aiming to rejuvenate their performance and return to playoff contention next season.