After failing to turn the free-falling Pirates around, manager John Russell has been relieved of his duties. Russell compiled a 186-299 record over three seasons with the Pirates, but the team got progressively worse in the three years under Russell's helm, and a change was in order.
Russell, a longtime and successful minor league manager, may find a spot as a bench coach or base coach, but it may be some time before he gets another shot to manage in the majors again.
Possible replacements for Russell include former Indians manager Eric Wedge.