Overview

• Derek Shelton was dismissed as manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates after a 12-26 start to the 2025 season, marking the first managerial firing in MLB this year.
• Bench coach Don Kelly has been promoted to interim manager, tasked with stabilizing the team during a challenging season.
• Star pitcher Paul Skenes acknowledged the move but emphasized that player performance, not just managerial changes, is key to improvement.
• General manager Ben Cherington and chairman Bob Nutting both cited the need for urgency in addressing the team's poor performance.
• Criticism of ownership's low-spending approach persists, with fans and analysts questioning the Pirates' commitment to building a competitive roster.