In a monumental announcement that ha electrified the baseball world and stirred deep nostalgia among Minnesota Twins fans, the team revealed today that Hall of Famer and franchise legend Tony Oliva is returning to the organization — this time in a powerful new role.
Oliva, 87, will become a co-owner of the Twins, in a historic partnership between the Pohlad family and the Oliva family, marking the first time a former player of his stature has taken on an ownership role within the franchise.
In a joint press conference held this morning at Target Field, the Pohlad family expressed their excitement at ushering in a new era of ownership that blends tradition with future vision.
“Tony Oliva has been the heart and soul of the Twins for over six decades — as a player, coach, and ambassador,” said Twins Chairman Joe Pohlad. “Today, we’re honored to welcome him as a partner in ownership. This isn’t just a business decision. It’s family.”
The new ownership structure will not only give Oliva equity in the team but also see him serve as a special advisor to baseball operations, with a focus on mentoring young players, promoting diversity in baseball, and preserving the heritage of the franchise.
A Full-Circle Moment
Tony Oliva, a Cuban-born outfielder, played his entire MLB career with the Minnesota Twins from 1962 to 1976. An eight-time All-Star, three-time batting champion, and 1964 American League Rookie of the Year, Oliva was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2022. He has remained a beloved figure in Minnesota, continuing to work with the organization in various capacities after his retirement.
Today’s announcement is being hailed as a “full-circle moment” for the franchise — and a symbolic bridge between its storied past and ambitious future.
“This is a dream I never expected,” said an emotional Oliva at the press conference. “Minnesota is my home. The Twins are my family. To be a part of the team in this way — it’s incredible. I want to give back to the game and to the fans who gave me so much.”
Community Response
Fan response has been overwhelmingly positive, with social media flooded with congratulatory messages, videos of Oliva highlights, and stories from long-time fans who remember his playing days.
Twins manager Rocco Baldelli also praised the move, saying, “You can’t find a better role model than Tony Oliva. Our young players will learn not just how to play the game — but how to carry themselves with grace and respect.”
What’s Next?
While details of Oliva’s ownership stake remain confidential, the Twins indicated that this marks the beginning of a broader initiative to involve former players and community leaders in strategic roles.
The 2025 season — already highly anticipated with a young core and a revitalized farm system — just gained a new layer of excitement.
