'The right person to lead us forward': Pirates extend contract of manager Don Kelly

The Pittsburgh Pirates made their first move of the offseason by extending Don Kelly’s contract to remain manager.

The Pirates announced Kelly will return for the 2026 season after being promoted from bench coach when Derek Shelton was fired May 8 following a 12-26 start. Kelly led the Pirates to a 59-65 record (.476).

The Pirates (71-91) finished in last place in the National League Central for the sixth time in seven seasons but went 32-33 after the All-Star break under Kelly, 45, a Mt. Lebanon and Point Park alum who also played for the Pirates in 2007.

“Donnie has earned the respect of the players, front office, and our fans — and he has certainly earned mine,” Pirates chairman Bob Nutting said in a statement. “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.”

Kelly became the Pirates’ 42nd manager when he was promoted from bench coach after Shelton’s dismissal. The Pirates swept seven series under Kelly, including against the NL East champion Philadelphia Phillies (June 6-8), American League wild-card Detroit Tigers (July 21-23) and NL West champion Los Angeles Dodgers (Sept. 2-4).

“I’m proud to continue leading the Pirates,” Kelly said in a statement. “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.”

A nine-year major-league veteran, Kelly earned the respect of the clubhouse for his tireless work ethic and ability to communicate on a personal level. The Pirates pitching staff also thrived under his leadership, compiling a 3.59 staff ERA from May 9 until the end of the season. The Pirates also posted the sixth-best fielding percentage (.988) and sixth-fewest errors (50) in MLB in that span.

“Donnie is an elite communicator. He is deeply trusted by our players because he’s credible, consistent, and unafraid of tough conversations,” Pirates general manager Ben Cherington said in a statement. “His background as both a scout and a coach gives him a rare perspective: patience when it’s needed and an unwavering belief in players’ ability to improve. Above all, he values people and winning. His ability to adjust, lead, and do the hard work makes him the right leader.”