Derek Shelton knew it was time for a change when the Pirates fired him back in May, that they fell short of expectations and it typically costs someone a job when that happens.

Speaking Tuesday for his formal introduction as Minnesota Twins manager, Shelton at a few different points referenced his six years with the Pirates, at one point answering a question about whether he knew why Pittsburgh made the move.

Shelton hardly questioned the decision.

“It was probably the right time,” Shelton said. “It was probably the right direction. … Completely understand that. Completely respect that. Still have a lot of really close relationships there. But at times, things in certain places run their course.

“I was very fortunate for my time in Pittsburgh and the things I learned. But it was a situ

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