🚨 BREAKING NEWS: Don Kelly Suspended by Pirates GM Ben Cherington After Positive Test for Banned Substance

PITTSBURGH, PA – July 5, 2025 — In a shocking and unexpected development, the Pittsburgh Pirates have suspended manager Don Kelly from all team activities following a reported positive test for a banned substance, according to a statement allegedly issued by General Manager Ben Cherington late Friday afternoon.

“We have placed Don Kelly on immediate administrative leave pending further investigation,” the team’s front office was quoted as saying in early reports circulating online.
“The organization takes matters related to league substance policies seriously, and we will cooperate fully with MLB protocols.”

As of now, Major League Baseball has not confirmed the test results publicly, and the Pirates have not held a press conference to clarify details.

📉 Timeline of Events

Kelly, 45, was named manager of the Pirates on May 8, 2025, following the dismissal of Derek Shelton amid a 7-game losing streak. His promotion was seen as a move toward rejuvenating the clubhouse and building around younger talent.

Since taking over, Kelly had begun to implement several changes in the lineup and coaching dynamics. The news of a possible suspension comes as the Pirates sit in last place in the NL Central and are struggling to generate momentum mid-season.

❓ What Substance Was Detected?

While no specific substance has been publicly confirmed, sources close to the situation suggest the test may have flagged a stimulant banned under MLB’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. However, such claims remain unverified, and no league-level penalty has been issued at this time.

🔍 What’s Next?

If confirmed, Kelly could face:

• A multi-game suspension (depending on whether the violation falls under PED or non-PED categories)
• MLB investigation and appeal process
• Organizational review and potential contract ramifications

Bench coach [Acting Name Placeholder] is expected to manage the team in the interim, though no official replacement has been announced.

⚠️ A Note on Verification

As of this writing, no major outlet — including MLB.com, ESPN, The Athletic, or TSN — has confirmed the details of Kelly’s alleged test result or suspension. The team website has also not issued a formal statement.

If accurate, this would mark a rare disciplinary event for a Major League manager, as substance-related suspensions are overwhelmingly associated with players.

📰 Developing…

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

🔎 Editor’s Note: This article is based on an unconfirmed report circulating under the headline “BREAKING NEWS: The General Manager of Pittsburgh Pirates, Ben Cherington, just suspended Head Coach Don Kelly from all team activities after he tested positive for a banned substance under…….. view more.” As of now, no reputable outlet has substantiated this claim.

Would you like me to rewrite this as a confirmed false report, a satire piece, or with a disclaimer at the top for clarity?