Details were released Wednesday about ceremonies before the Twins game Saturday at Target Field marking the retirement of the jersey number worn by former Twins Manager Tom Kelly.
The Twins said in January that it intended to retire the No. 10 worn by Kelly as he guided the team to World Series titles in 1987 and 1991 during his reign as manager from 1986 to 2001.
"Few, if any individuals have had as much direct impact on the success of the Twins franchise as Tom Kelly," team owner and CEO Jim Pohlad said in a statement Wednesday. "Over a 41-year career with the Twins organization, Tom has helped ensure high standards on and off the field and has always demonstrated the utmost respect for the game."
The festivities at Target Field are scheduled to begin at 5:45 p.m. and will be emceed by former Twins radio broadcaster John Gordon. Speakers will include former Twins General Manager Andy MacPhail, former Twins first baseman Kent Hrbek, Twins Manager Ron Gardenhire, Pohlad and Kelly.
Kelly will throw out the ceremonial first pitch ahead of the Twins-Indians game starting at 6:40 p.m.
The first 10,000 fans to arrive at Target Field will receive a commemorative mini-oar, featuring Kelly's famous quote: "We're all in this boat together. Everybody grab an oar."
Other Twins to have their numbers retired are: Harmon Killebrew (3), Rod Carew (29), Tony Oliva (6), Hrbek (14), Kirby Puckett (34) and Bert Blyleven (28). In conjunction with all of Major League Baseball, the Twins have also retired Jackie Robinson's No. 42.
Kelly is the Twins all-time leader with 1,140 managerial victories, along with 1,244 losses. He has a postseason record of 16-8.
Since stepping aside, Kelly has remained active within the organization, working as special instructor during spring training, evaluating the farm system and serving as a special assistant to the general manager. Kelly also has filled in as a TV analyst during games.
Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482
