MINNEAPOLIS -- Former Twins manager Ron Gardenhire is rejoining the organization, as he was hired as a special assistant to general manager Terry Ryan, the club announced Monday.
Gardenhire, who managed the Twins from 2002-14, will serve as a roving Minor League instructor and evaluator. It's a similar role former manager Tom Kelly had with the organization after stepping down as manager following the 2001 season.
Gardenhire, 58, led the Twins to six division titles and was the American League Manager of the Year in 2010. He finished as runner-up in '03, '04, '06, '08 and '09.