Photo provided by Matt Lynch.
The Pittsburgh Pirates announced on Monday that they’ve extended the contract of manager Don Kelly. Kelly, who was named manager after the Pirates dismissed Derek Shelton on May 8, went 59-65 after taking over.
“Donnie has earned the respect of the players, front office, and our fans – and he has certainly
earned mine,” said Pirates Chairman, Bob Nutting. “Donnie took over the team at a true low point.
Since then, we’ve seen meaningful progress, not just in the clubhouse culture, but on the field. His
connection to the community and passion for the franchise make him more than just a manager. He is a Pittsburgher; he is part of our community. He’s the right fit, at the right time, and is the right person to lead us forward.”
The 45-year-old Kelly, who is the 42nd manager in club history, made his MLB debut as a player for Pirates in 2007, played nine seasons in the big leagues between the Pirates, Detroit Tigers and Miami Marlins.
After his playing career, Kelly served in Detroit’s front office before he was named first base coach of the Houston Astros for the 2018 season. The Mt. Lebanon High School graduate returned to his hometown when the Pirates named Derek Shelton manager prior to the 2020 season.
“I’m proud to continue leading the Pirates,” said Kelly. “Our clubhouse is full of players who care
deeply about each other, about winning, and about representing Pittsburgh the right way. I was a
Pirates fan first. I know our fans deserve a team that delivers on the field, and it’s on me to make sure we reach that standard.”
Pittsburgh finished the season with a 44-37 record at PNC Park, including 37-25 under Kelly. Their
.597 home winning percentage under Kelly was the ninth-best mark in all of Major League Baseball. The Pirates also went 32-33 following the All-Star break.
Overall, the Pirates finished the year with a 71-91 record and in last place in the National League Central.
“This season, we fell well short as an organization both on and off the field,” added Nutting. “It has
been unacceptable. Our focus must shift to execution, to delivering wins. Results are the only thing that matter. We owe it to our fans, to the city, and to the legacy of this team to get it right. Ben and everyone in the organization fully understands what is expected, and that the work ahead demands urgency. Today’s announcement of Donnie is the first of many steps we will take this offseason to bring winning baseball back to Pittsburgh.”
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