Pirates part ways with manager Derek Shelton 38 games into 2025 season

Published: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 5:18 pm

**Pirates Fire Manager Derek Shelton After Rocky Start to 2025 Season**

The Pittsburgh Pirates have made a significant move, parting ways with manager Derek Shelton after a disappointing start to the 2025 season. The decision, announced on Thursday, comes after the team's record fell to 12-26 following a recent loss to the St. Louis Cardinals.

General Manager Ben Cherington acknowledged Shelton's hard work and dedication over his five-plus years with the team, but ultimately decided a change was necessary. Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting echoed this sentiment, citing the "frustrating and painful" first quarter of the season as the catalyst for the managerial change. Nutting emphasized the need for urgency and a renewed focus on improvement.

Shelton, who took the helm in 2020, compiled a record of 306-440 during his tenure and never managed to lead the team to a winning season. Bench coach Don Kelly has been appointed as Shelton's replacement.

The Pirates' season has been marked by a series of off-field controversies, including the removal of a Roberto Clemente tribute and a recent incident involving a fan falling from the stands. Despite the challenges, the organization believes there is still time to turn the season around.

Keywords: Pittsburgh Pirates, Derek Shelton, manager, fired, Don Kelly, MLB, baseball, season, St. Louis Cardinals, Ben Cherington, Bob Nutting, Roberto Clemente, PNC Park, sports, news

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