Pittsburgh Pirates: Candidates for Pitching Coach

BOSTON, MA – OCTOBER 08: Manager John Farrell of the Boston Red Sox relieves Doug Fister #38 (not pictured) in the second inning against the Houston Astros during game three of the American League Division Series at Fenway Park on October 8, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

John Farrell is currently serving an interesting role with the Cincinnati Reds. He is currently a consultant for player development focusing on pitchers. In this role, he evaluates pitchers and works with the organization’s pitching coaches and coordinators.

Farrell is best known for winning the 2013 World Series as the manager of the Boston Red Sox under, that’s right, Ben Cherington. Cherington, who was then the Red Sox GM, hired Farrell to be Boston’s manager prior to the 2012 season. Farrell was the team’s manager from 2013-2017. He also served as Boston’s pitching coach from 2007-2010 where he helped develop a number of pitchers, including Jon Lester.

In between his roles with Boston, he was the manager of the Toronto Blue Jays for two seasons in 2011 and 2012.

Farrell’s playing career spanned eight seasons and he played for the Indians, Angels and Tigers. He went 36-46 with a 4.56 ERA in 116 games pitched (109 starts).

Farrell’s connection to Pirates general manager Ben Cherington makes him an obvious candidate. In addition to this, he has served in the role of pitching coach before and had success. Lastly, having someone with managerial experience on first-time manager Derek Shelton’s staff would provide benefits to the rookie skipper.

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