Pirates keep manager, dismiss coaches

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- Lloyd McClendon will be back to manage the Pittsburgh Pirates next season. Most of his coaches will not.

The Pirates announced Thursday they have decided to honor the final year of McClendon's contract after the team suffered through its 10th consecutive losing season.

Rumors had McClendon as another possible managerial casualty, but the Pirates will bring him back for a third season. Pittsburgh went 62-100 in his first year and 72-89 this past season.

"There are obviously issues, as has been brought up in the media regarding lame duck status," general manager Dave Littlefied said. "But I feel confident that Lloyd will be motivated to manage and do a fine job."

Littlefield added that he will continue to give McClendon support. He did not do the same for most of his coaches, firing two and offering three other positions within the organization.

First base coach Tommy Sandt and catching instructor Russ Nixon were fired. Hitting coach Dave Clark and field coordinator Jeff Bannister will not be back but were offered minor league positions. Third base coach Trent Jewett has been offered another position with the big league club.

Pitching coach Spin Williams and bullpen coach Bruce Tanner will be retained. Bench coach Bill Virdon announced his retirement at the end of the season.