Derek Shelton, manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates, is stepping down.
The American sports media outlet Sports Illustrated reported on the 9th that "the Pittsburgh organization officially announced that they have dismissed manager Derek Shelton." Accordingly, bench coach Don Kelly will serve as the interim manager.
The outlet reported, "Shelton has led the team for six years, recording 306 wins and 440 losses. Excluding the shortened 2020 season due to COVID-19, he experienced two 100-loss seasons, and in 2023 and 2024, he had records of 76 wins and 86 losses, respectively."
It added, "After suffering a sweep loss to the St. Louis Cardinals this season, with a record of 12 wins and 26 losses, the organization could no longer delay its decision."
Bob Nutting, the owner of the organization, said, "Shelton has been a good person who has done a lot for the organization. However, the time has come for change. The early part of the season has been frustrating and painful for all of us. We need to do better. I know it, Director General Ben Cherington knows it, and all the coaches and players know it."
He evaluated interim manager Kelly, saying, "Kelly is one of the most respected figures in the clubhouse and the entire organization. He is a true Pirates person. He loves our team and community more than anyone and is the right person to lead our team back on track."
With Kelly as the interim manager, it seems likely that this will also impact the future of Bae Ji-hwan, who is waiting to be promoted from Triple-A to the big leagues.
Meanwhile, attention is focused on the future of Director General Cherington. If there is no improvement in performance after the midpoint of the season, it is expected that the director will also be at the center of criticism.
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