Third base coaches are like football’s offensive linemen; fans usually only notice them when something goes wrong.
That sentiment held true for Kansas City Royals fans this season, as third base coach Vance Wilson drew criticism for a few high-profile decisions on the basepaths. Still, a handful of questionable sends shouldn’t define Wilson’s tenure, and clearly haven’t among the wider baseball community. Wilson was widely regarded as a viable managerial candidate this offseason, but with another opening now filled, his external options may be dwindling.
The Minnesota Twins, a division rival, introduced Derek Shelton as their new manager on Tuesday, making him the 15th skipper in franchise history.