In a move that’s sure to spark conversations among baseball enthusiasts, the Pittsburgh Pirates have made a bold coaching staff change just weeks before spring training kicks off. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Cibney Bello, a seasoned pitching coach with a vibrant background, has been promoted to assistant pitching coach, stepping into the role left vacant by Thomas Whitsett’s unexpected resignation. And this is the part most people miss—Bello’s promotion isn’t just a fill-in; it’s a strategic addition aimed at injecting energy and expertise into the team’s pitching department.
Whitsett, who joined the Pirates in December alongside new pitching coach Bill Murphy (formerly of the Houston Astros), resigned for personal reasons. At 37, Whitsett had a notable resume, including a stint as pitching coach for Triple-A Sugar Land last season and a role as minor-league pitching coordinator in 2023. His departure, while sudden, opened the door for Bello, a 43-year-old Venezuelan native with a rich history in the sport.
Here’s the controversial angle: While Bello’s promotion is widely celebrated within the organization, it raises questions about the future dynamics of the coaching staff. Bello, who previously shared pitching coach duties with Drew Benes at Triple-A Indianapolis and worked at the Pirates’ Dominican Republic academy, brings a unique blend of experience and positivity. Manager Don Kelly praised Bello’s impact, stating, ‘A lot of energy and positivity. He’s done a lot for us in Triple-A and down in the D.R. I’m really excited to add him as the assistant pitching coach.’ But is this enough to fill the void left by Whitsett and Strom?
Bello’s journey to this role is nothing short of inspiring. As a former right-handed pitcher, he signed with the Seattle Mariners in 2000, compiling a 21-26 record with a 5.18 ERA over eight minor-league seasons, peaking at High-A in 2006-07. He later played in independent leagues before transitioning to coaching. Bello’s coaching career began in 2011 with the Mariners in the Arizona League, and he later spent eight seasons with the Minnesota Twins organization, including three years as pitching coach for Triple-A St. Paul. This depth of experience makes him a valuable asset, but it also highlights the high expectations placed on his shoulders.
And here’s the thought-provoking question: With such a strong pool of internal candidates—including Drew Benes, Josh Hopper, Vic Black, Dewey Robinson, and Amaury Telemaco—why Bello? Kelly admitted the decision was tough, calling the internal candidates ‘really strong with great human beings, with great content and technical skills.’ Yet, Bello’s positivity, relationship-building skills, and proven track record tipped the scales in his favor. But does this mean the others fell short, or is there more to the story?
As the Pirates gear up for the upcoming season, Bello’s promotion is a clear signal of the team’s commitment to fostering a positive and technically sound pitching environment. However, only time will tell if this move will pay off on the field. What’s your take? Is Bello the right choice, or should the Pirates have gone with another candidate? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
