Pittsburgh, PA – The Pittsburgh Pirates have announced a significant change in their management. Derek Shelton has been relieved of his position as team manager.
Instead, Don Kelly, who served as bench coach, will assume leadership of the club immediately.
Derek worked incredibly hard and sacrificed a lot for over five years. His family became a big part of the Pirates’ family and we will miss that.
Ben Cherington, General Manager
General Manager Ben Cherington praised Shelton, highlighting his intelligence and motivation. Cherington added that, although Shelton was the right person at the time, a change was deemed necessary.
Derek is a good man who did a lot for the Pirates and for Pittsburgh, but it was time for a change.
Bob Nutting, Team President
The team president, Bob Nutting, also thanked Shelton for his dedication and acknowledged the need to improve the team’s performance.
With the season underway, the management trusts that Don Kelly can guide the team towards a new stage.
I firmly believe that Donnie is the right person to lead the team at this time. He has the skills and experience necessary to do this job well and cares deeply about the Pirates and Pittsburgh. I look forward to working with him more closely.
Ben Cherington, General Manager
Kelly, a Pittsburgh native, was starting his sixth season as a bench coach. Previously, he was a first base coach for the Houston Astros in 2019.
As a player, Kelly participated in 585 Major League games with the Pirates, Tigers, and Marlins, debuting in 2007 with Pittsburgh. He was part of the Detroit team that reached the World Series in 2012.
The appointment of Don Kelly represents a commitment to stability and internal knowledge of the club.
