The 2025 MLB season has already claimed its first managerial victim with Derek Shelton being dismissed by the Pittsburgh Pirates. After parts of six seasons managing the team, Shelton’s firing came just 38 games into the year. Despite the brevity, the decision wasn’t entirely unexpected given the team’s struggles.
The Pirates’ poor performance and organizational stagnation signaled the inevitability of a leadership change. Shelton’s exit may be the first, but it is unlikely to be the last as the season progresses and more teams underperform.
Playoff Pedigree Not Enough as Hyde, Baldelli Face Growing Mid-Season Firing Pressure
Mid-season managerial changes are uncommon but not unheard of, particularly when expectations are not met. A handful of current managers find themselves on increasingly shaky ground. These managers may become convenient scapegoats for teams floundering in the standings or failing to meet pre-season projections. Though the list may not be exhaustive, several high-profile names are under heightened scrutiny as the season unfolds.
Derek Shelton (MLB)Brandon Hyde, who has previously led the Baltimore Orioles to playoff appearances, now finds himself in an unexpected hot seat. The Orioles’ underwhelming 2025 season, marked by the league’s worst run differential, could cost Hyde his job, despite the front office bearing much of the blame.
Similarly, Rocco Baldelli of the Minnesota Twins faces uncertainty. Despite past success, including a 2023 postseason win, his team’s underperformance this year leaves his job security in question if results don’t improve soon.
Struggling Managers on the Brink as Rockies, Jays, and Angels Falter in 2025
Bud Black is overseeing what may be the worst team in modern MLB history with the Colorado Rockies. With an abysmal record and consistent losing seasons under his watch, his continued employment is more reflective of the Rockies’ unique approach to leadership than of his success.
Meanwhile, John Schneider’s tenure with the Blue Jays is also in jeopardy. After a lackluster 2024 season and a slow start in 2025, Schneider has failed to inspire confidence despite an active offseason meant to boost the team’s performance.
Ron Washington’s time with the Los Angeles Angels has been marred by poor results, despite his veteran status and early promise. After a 99-loss season in 2024 and a return to the bottom of the division in 2025, his leadership is under serious question.
Given the Angels’ recent trend of frequent managerial changes and Washington’s temporary-seeming appointment, his time may soon be up if performance doesn’t drastically improve. As the season continues, job security for managers like Washington remains precarious.
