Last-Place Pirates Fire Manager Shelton Promote Don Kelly

The Pittsburgh Pirates have fired manager Derek Shelton after a disappointing start to the 2025 season, with the team holding a 12-26 record and enduring a seven-game losing streak. Shelton, hired in 2019 as part of a franchise rebuild, compiled a 306-440 record over five-plus seasons but was unable to elevate the team's performance, especially offensively, despite steady pitching from young star Paul Skenes. General Manager Ben Cherington praised Shelton's dedication and leadership but stated a change was necessary. Bench coach Don Kelly, a Pittsburgh native and former Detroit Tigers utility player, has been promoted to manager and is seen by the organization as a respected clubhouse leader capable of energizing the team. The Pirates, ranked near the bottom in payroll, face a challenging schedule ahead against top National League teams. Fans and the organization hope Kelly can spark improvement amid widespread frustration over the team's ongoing struggles under Shelton, GM Cherington, and owner Bob Nutting.