In January 1999 St. Peter was named senior vice president of business affairs and that was his introduction to having the franchise’s “revenue side” report to him. The experience of transitioning from public relations to a comprehensive business position was challenging and a “learning opportunity,” but it was also a troubling time for the franchise. The team was drawing about one million fans per year, the player payroll was low and the team’s campaign for a new stadium was going nowhere.
St. Peter credits difficult times with helping shape his career and move up the organizational ladder. He spoke about “crisis du jour” during the last 10 years. “We’ve had a lot of great times but we’ve had some challenging times with the failed stadium effort, with potential relocation of the franchise, with obviously the contraction issue,” he said. “I think we all collectively as an organization have bonded together. And I want to believe that we have been able to provide strong leadership and kind of keep the ship afloat from an operational perspective. I don’t think there is any question that this has helped me as an individual grow, as an employee and also as a leader. …”
You don’t talk to St. Peter without hearing about people in the Twins organization. He praises the baseball and business staffs, and acknowledges mentors Jerry Bell (former president who promoted St. Peter in 1999) and former manager Tom Kelly who helped teach him what it takes “to be successful in baseball.” They and others generously shared their wisdom and expertise.