4 offseason changes that need to happen if the Pirates miss the playoffs again

Buc-tober is slipping away. Here's how the Pirates can improve for a run in 2025.

Pittsburgh Pirates v Los Angeles Dodgers
Pittsburgh Pirates v Los Angeles Dodgers | Orlando Ramirez/GettyImages
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Make coaching changes

Shelton may realistically be on the chopping block after the 2024 season. In five seasons at the helm, he has a .411 winning percentage as of Aug. 15. That’s second-worst among active managers with at least 315 games under their belt. 

While some of that failure can be attributed to players and situations that Shelton inherited, much of the current season’s frustrations can be laid at the feet of the skipper. Players are getting ripped by the front office for sloppy play, and the bullpen collapses night after night. Shelton, who long served as a hitting coach for various Major League clubs, now oversees a team with the second-worst OPS in the National League.

In fact, hitting coaches across the franchise should be getting a second look. Only Greensboro and the FCL Pirates have an OPS better than league average. Help does not seem to be on the way for the powerless Pittsburgh club.

Finally, Shelton has not effectively overseen the development of the “stars of the future.” Ke’Bryan Hayes, David Bednar, and Holderman have all struggled this season, and Mitch Keller seems to be on the verge of collapse once again. It may be wise to install a new regime before more promising young players make the bigs.

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