Minneapolis, MN — Just moments after the Minnesota Twins landed in Chicago for their upcoming series, Major League Baseball (MLB) announced that Twins manager Rocco Baldelli has been banned from all in-person coaching activities after testing positive for COVID-19 during a routine health screening.
Sources close to the league confirmed that the positive result came through late this morning, prompting immediate action by MLB officials in accordance with the league’s updated health and safety protocols.
Rocco Baldelli Is in Isolation
Baldelli, 43, reportedly exhibited mild symptoms earlier this week but initially tested negative before today’s result confirmed the infection. He is now in isolation and receiving medical supervision. The Twins organization released a brief statement expressing support for Baldelli, stating:
“Our priority is Coach Baldelli’s health and well-being. He is in good spirits and will remain isolated while continuing to support the team remotely.”
Interim Coaching Staff Named
In Baldelli’s absence, bench coach Jayce Tingler is expected to take over managerial duties for the upcoming games. The Twins are set to face the Chicago White Sox in a three-game series starting tonight at Guaranteed Rate Field.
MLB Monitoring Situation Closely
This development marks one of the first high-profile COVID-19 cases among team leadership in the second half of the 2025 season. MLB has reiterated its commitment to player and staff safety, noting that contact tracing is underway and that no additional cases among the Twins have been reported as of this writing.
Fans React
The sudden announcement sparked a wave of concern and support from fans on social media, with many wishing Baldelli a quick recovery. The Twins are currently in the middle of a tight playoff race, making his absence especially notable during this critical stretch.
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