Pirates fire hitting coach Rick Eckstein

The Pittsburgh Pirates began Monday at 48-83, in last place in the National League Central division standings, and, per The Associated Press (h/t ESPN), last in all of MLB in runs scored, home runs, slugging percentage and on-base percentage plus slugging. 

Pittsburgh general manager Ben Cherington reacted by firing hitting coach Rick Eckstein on Monday. 

"We are grateful for Rick’s dedication to the team and our players," Cherington said in the prepared statement. "This was a difficult decision, as we have a great deal of respect for Rick. Making the decision now gives us the opportunity to use the rest of the season to focus on improvements in our hitting program while also starting the process of looking for a replacement. We wish Rick all the best moving forward." 

Eckstein had held the role since November 2018. 

Pirates manager Derek Shelton added: 

"I appreciate Rick’s tireless work ethic and his passion for our players. Despite the challenging season, Rick always put in the effort to connect and help our players. He is a great person who we will all be rooting for in his next opportunity." 

The perpetually rebuilding Pirates are off Monday and then play at the Chicago White Sox (76-56, first place in the American League Central) on Tuesday.