Bartlett set to end comeback bid with Twins

KANSAS CITY -- The timing isn't right for Jason Bartlett to immediately go from playing to instructing, but Twins assistant general manager Rob Antony can envision a day when Bartlett becomes a coach in professional baseball.

The veteran shortstop has informed Minnesota of his intention to retire and the paperwork is expected to be completed early next week so that Bartlett can make an official announcement. If Bartlett should decide that he would like to work with players down the road, Antony believes Bartlett would be an organizational asset.

"I think he would be a good coach some day," Antony said. "He has expressed interest in that."

Bartlett, 34, was attempting a comeback this season after sitting out all of 2013. He was about to begin a rehab assignment for Class A Advanced Fort Myers when word came that Bartlett wanted to step away from the game.

"He doesn't have that little drive he needs to get back in it," Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said.

The Twins will gain a spot on the 40-man roster with Bartlett's retirement.