“If we don’t grow, it’s a completely lost season”— These words, echoing in Pittsburgh, have come straight from the Pirates’ star pitcher, Paul Skenes. His fastball exceeds all the limits, but his frustration has hit the breaking point. Just when the Pirates found themselves falling to 12-26 in the season, they decided to relieve their longtime manager, Derek Shelton. However, this move drew heavy scrutiny from the fanbase, not towards the bullpen but squarely at owner Bob Nutting.

But the backlash didn’t just come from the Pittsburgh Nation. In fact, a former Pirates player went a bit extreme with his words, claiming that Nutting finds himself “comfortable being mediocre.” Well, he isn’t entirely, as it’s backed by facts. For instance, Nutting is in complete denial of having any deeper organizational issues. But more importantly, his Pirates have the reputation of having one of the lowest payrolls in the league, and that too consistently. This will certainly remain the same until Nutting decides to invest competitively in the players.

While fans and critics remain skeptical about the Pirates alike, there’s someone walking on cloud nine. In a conversation with The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, the Pirates’ executive Ben Cherington shared his optimism about the Bucs. Turning a blind eye towards Pittsburgh’s standing in the NL Central, Cherington claimed that the team can still turn all the odds in their favor. And wait..that’s not all. He also issued a warning to all the teams in the league.

According to Cherington, the Pirates shouldn’t be counted out just yet. He stated, “I don’t think we have to squint too hard to see a better team on the field in 2025. I believe we can and will be better on both sides of the ball.” While it may come across as arrogant, given the Pirates’ score. But Cherington claimed it was a bullet they couldn’t dodge, which has led the team into this tough stretch.

Clarifying his words, the executive said he isn’t blind to the hole the team has dug for itself. He added, “We’ve had a perfect storm of stuff happening that has contributed to a much more difficult start than we wanted.” He was referring to the wave of injuries that hit the Pirates. A few who made it to the injured list include second baseman Nick Gonzales, catcher Endy Rodríguez, first baseman Spencer Horwitz, and shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa.

Well, now it won’t be any easier to climb out of this slump. Perhaps that’s why Cherington’s words matter even more, giving the team as well as the fans the much-needed confidence and hope. He firmly believes that Pirates are going to make the impossible happen. And how if you must ask? One pitch at a time.

Pirates show promising signs after Don Kelly’s managerial debut

Looks like it’s happening already. Bench coach Don Kelly took over the Pirates after Shelton was dismissed from his position. Kelly made his managerial debut just two days later after Shelton’s exit, and he already seems like he’s a lucky charm for the team. Honestly, with all the mounting pressure, it nearly felt like the Pirates wouldn’t perform well.

But phew! After seven consecutive losses, the Pirates defeated the Atlanta Braves by 3-2. Now, the Pirates have 13 wins to their name, making their overall record 13-26. The first matchup after Shelton’s exit took place on March 10, when the Pirates broke their seven-game losing streak.

Sure, it’s too early to talk about Kelly’s impact as a manager, but the team was on fire against the Braves—both on the mound and at bat. Alexander Canario and Jared Triolo both contributed by hitting soaring home runs, giving the Pirates a much-needed lead.

As for pitching, Bailey Falter delivered exceptionally, holding his ground. He struck out three batters. Across six innings, he allowed only two hits. Not to forget, David Bednar delivered his best as he struck out three hitters, allowing only two hits.

It seems like Cherington’s vision of seeing the team bounce back stronger has come to life. He sounded extremely confident when he said, “I believe we can and will be better on both sides of the ball.” As it turns out, he was right. At least some credit goes to Kelly; his debut has helped the team end their losing streak. And hopefully, it will last for the Pirates.

Do you think the Pirates will thrive under his guidance?