Pittsburgh Pirates Manager Don Kelly Announces Devastating Family Loss
Pittsburgh Pirates manager Don Kelly delivered heartbreaking news today, announcing the passing of his uncle. The announcement casts a somber shadow over the team as they navigate a challenging season. Kelly, a Pittsburgh native and lifelong Pirates fan, has been deeply connected to the city and its baseball community throughout his career.
Kelly’s appointment as the Pittsburgh Pirates’ manager in May 2025 marked a significant moment in his career and for the organization. He stepped into the role following the departure of Derek Shelton, bringing with him six seasons of experience as the team’s bench coach. His intimate knowledge of the team, players, and organization made him a natural choice to lead the Pirates into a new era.
His baseball journey began in Pittsburgh in 2007, marking the start of a long and dedicated career within the organization. He’s a product of the Pirates’ system, having worked his way up through the ranks, gaining valuable experience and understanding the intricacies of the game from various perspectives.
The news of Kelly’s uncle’s passing is a deeply personal loss, impacting not only Kelly but also the entire Pirates organization. The team has rallied around their manager, offering their unwavering support during this difficult time. The Pirates’ players, coaches, and staff recognize the emotional toll this loss will take, and they are prepared to provide Kelly with the space and understanding he needs to grieve.
The Pirates organization has expressed its deepest condolences to Kelly and his family. In a statement released earlier today, the team emphasized the importance of supporting Kelly during this challenging period. The statement highlighted Kelly’s dedication to the team and recognized the profound impact his uncle’s passing will have on him.
While the Pirates face a demanding schedule on the field, the focus now shifts to supporting Kelly and his family. The team will provide him with the necessary time and resources to cope with his loss. The coming days and weeks will undoubtedly be challenging, but the Pirates organization is committed to providing Kelly with the space and support he needs to navigate this difficult time.
The Pirates’ upcoming games will undoubtedly be played with a heavy heart, but the team will strive to honor Kelly’s commitment and dedication by continuing to compete with resilience and determination. The focus will remain on supporting Kelly while maintaining the team’s commitment to excellence on the field. The Pirates’ community stands united in offering its support and condolences to Kelly and his family during this time of profound grief.
