Pittsburgh Pirates – Clint Hurdle
Clint Hurdle has actually had a bit of success as an MLB manager. He led the Rockies to their first, and thus far only, World Series appearance back in 2007. And, he had led the Pirates to three consecutive appearances in the playoffs.
This was supposed to be the year that the Pirates returned to the postseason. They had built for this season at the 2018 MLB trade deadline, acquiring Chris Archer and Keone Kela. That season saw the Pirates finish with an 82-79 record. In what appeared to be a weaker NL Central, the Pirates were expected to contend.
While they hovered around .500 for the first half of the season, Pittsburgh has stumbled since the All Star Break. They lost 23 of their first 27 games in the second half, appearing listless and unmotivated. Kela has found himself suspended due to team infractions, and virtually the entire roster has underperformed.
There are questions as to the commitment put forth by ownership. The Pirates were seemingly in a good place to move forward, but owner Bob Nutting refused to open the checkbook. Nonetheless, those failing land at the feet of the manager, especially given the lack of effort being put forth on the diamond.
Clint Hurdle may not be the only member of the organization to lose their job after this season. But he is the that may find himself taking the brunt of the blame.