MINNEAPOLIS -- Former Twins manager Ron Gardenhire returned to Target Field on Wednesday in his role as special assistant to general manager Terry Ryan.
It marked the first time Gardenhire had been at the ballpark since he was dismissed as manager following the 2014 season after managing the club for 13 years. Gardenhire has already visited each of the organization's Minor League affiliates, and Ryan asked him to see the Twins in person this week, especially with the MLB Draft on Thursday and David Ortiz's pregame ceremony before Friday's game against the Red Sox.
Gardenhire, who was hired in early April, has done a bit of everything in his new role, as he's advised the club's Minor League managers, scouted players and helped run drills.