By Kareem Shaker

Minneapolis, MN

After a 99-loss season in which the team boasted a fairly healthy $112 million payroll, the Minnesota Twins decided to make a change at the top Monday.

The Twins dismissed GM Bill Smith and moved Terry Ryan back into the role he previously served in from 1994-07.

"No one in the Twins' organization wants to win any more than Bill," Twins owner Jim Pohlad said in a statement. "He is unquestionably loyal, committed and talented. The Twins' goal is to get better in 2012 and beyond. Bill was equally motivated to achieve that goal, but we differed in the scope and approach that was required."

Ryan said he is excited to return to the top post of one of baseball's most successful teams.

"As we move ahead, I'm looking forward to the challenge of improving this club for 2012 and beyond," Ryan said in a statement. "We have many assets in place including a strong front office, manager, coaching staff and returning core of players. We have a lot of work to do in relation to development of our roster, but I'm optimistic in our collective abilities to ensure the future on-field success of this franchise."

 

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Twins Fire GM Bill Smith After 99-Loss Season