THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE: It is Done Pittsburgh pirates legend Derek Shelton Returns as Co-Owner In a monumental, Pirates Owner Bob Nutting and his family has officially declared that Derek Shelton the legendary Man and long-time face of the Franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as…

In a stunning and heartwarming announcement, Pittsburgh Pirates owner Bob Nutting and his family have declared that Derek Shelton, a beloved figure in the franchise’s history, will return to the organization in 2025 as a co-owner. This move has sent waves of excitement through the Pirates’ fanbase, marking a new chapter for the team and its storied legacy. Shelton, who served as the Pirates’ manager from 2020 until his dismissal earlier this year, is set to bring his passion, expertise, and deep connection to Pittsburgh back to the organization in a groundbreaking role.

Shelton’s tenure as manager was a challenging yet transformative period for the Pirates. Hired in November 2019, he led the team through a rebuild, navigating a 19-41 record in the COVID-shortened 2020 season and back-to-back 100-loss seasons in 2021 and 2022. Despite the struggles, Shelton’s leadership laid the groundwork for a brighter future, with the team achieving 76-86 records in 2023 and 2024, bolstered by the emergence of stars like Paul Skenes, the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year. His commitment to player development and team culture earned him respect across the organization, even as the Pirates faced a tough 12-26 start in 2025, leading to his departure as manager.

Now, Shelton’s return as co-owner signals a bold shift for the Pirates. Bob Nutting, often criticized for the team’s low payroll and conservative spending, described Shelton as “a good man who did a lot for the Pirates and Pittsburgh.” Nutting emphasized that Shelton’s new role reflects his belief in the franchise’s potential and his desire to see it thrive. “Derek’s heart is with this team and this city,” Nutting said. “His vision and leadership will help us take the next steps toward sustained success.” This move suggests a willingness to integrate Shelton’s baseball acumen into the team’s strategic decisions, potentially influencing roster construction and organizational priorities.

Shelton’s journey with the Pirates is deeply personal. A former minor league catcher in the Yankees’ system, he transitioned into coaching and management, eventually becoming a respected figure in Pittsburgh. His local ties—having grown up in Warren, Ohio, and played college baseball at Southern Illinois University—resonate with fans who see him as one of their own. Shelton’s reputation for fostering young talent, like Skenes and Jared Jones, and his ability to maintain team morale during tough seasons make him a unique addition to the ownership group. Fans are hopeful that his influence could push for increased investment in the roster, addressing the Pirates’ perennial issue of ranking among the lowest in MLB payrolls.

The announcement has sparked optimism among Pirates supporters, who have endured a playoff drought since 2015. Social media buzzed with excitement, with one fan posting, “Shelton as co-owner? This is the spark we needed!” While some remain skeptical, citing the need for broader organizational changes, many view Shelton’s return as a sign of commitment to winning. His new role could bridge the gap between the front office and the clubhouse, offering a player-friendly perspective to ownership decisions.

As the Pirates prepare for the remainder of the 2025 season under new manager Don Kelly, Shelton’s presence as co-owner looms large. With a talented young core and a passionate fanbase, Pittsburgh is poised for a potential turnaround. Shelton’s return could be the catalyst for a new era of Pirates baseball, one where the black and gold aim to reclaim their place among MLB’s elite.