Ron Gardenhire became manager of the Minnesota Twins in
2002. I started rooting for the Twins with greater passion in 2002 because of
the spunky team he lead back to the playoffs. Since 2002 the Twins have won 6
division titles, but only advanced once in the playoffs (2002). Under
Gardenhire the Twins won more often than not, and gave fans plenty to root for. At least till 2011-2014 when 4 straight 90
loss seasons did Ron Gardenhire in. Now the Twins have to find a new manager
who hopefully can turn the Twins back around.
Gardenhire lead teams that employed 2 MVP’s in Joe Mauer and
Justin Morneau, a 2x Cy Young Award winner in Johan Santana, and 2 other
players (Torii Hunter and Joe Nathan) who were considered amongst the best at
their position. Yet many fans felt Gardenhire lead teams underachieved. Others
feel he got more out of the Twins than others would have.
I remember my interactions with him. I got 5 cards, 1 ball,
1 photo, and Twins banner signed by him. He was always pleasant with me. I even
freaked him out at Twinsfest 2007 when I congratulated him on the new truck he
had just bought (a guy in line who worked at the dealership Gardenhire bought
truck from told me).
I liked Ron Gardenhire, but it was time for him to go. I
will remember his successes more than his failures. I am not sure his successor
will right the ship, but Gardenhire was no longer getting through to the
players and a new voice was needed. Hopefully the new manager will be a person
who is kind to fans like Ron Gardenhire was. Best of luck in your future Gardy!
