Minnesota Twins hire Derek Shelton as manager, breaking decades-long pattern of first-time hires. Can the former Pirates skipper succeed with better talent and resources?

Brandon Warne and Theo Tollefson from Zone Coverage break down Shelton's qualifications, his familiarity with the organization as former bench coach, and why his Pittsburgh record shouldn't define him. The discussion shifts to critical 40-man roster decisions, analyzing which players face outrights including Jose Miranda and Mickey Gasper, and which prospects like Andrew Morris, Connor Prielipp, and Gabriel Gonzalez need Rule 5 protection. Tollefson provides insider perspectives on the Twins' minor league system while Warne explains how the team can leverage bullpen opportunities to attract talent.

Key topics include Shelton's development track record with Tampa Bay and Cleveland, the strategic timing of roster moves, and how Hendry Mendez could justify the Harrison Bader trade.

Tune in for comprehensive analysis of how these roster decisions shape the Twins' offseason strategy and competitive outlook.

• 0:00 Intro
• 1:31 Derek Shelton hired as Twins manager
• 3:30 Shelton's familiarity with the organization
• 6:31 Shelton's track record as hitting coach
• 10:06 Giving Shelton a fair chance
• 14:47 Christian Vazquez and free agent decisions
• 17:27 Bullpen construction and minor league signings
• 19:09 40-man roster decisions and outrights
• 22:09 Mickey Gasper's uncertain roster status
• 25:20 Rule 5 protection additions discussion
• 27:59 Connor Prielipp and top pitching prospects
• 30:27 Kendry Rojas protection debate
• 32:19 Hendry Mendez's future at first base
• 35:28 Kyler Fedko and outfield depth
• 37:17 Final 40-man roster projections

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