MLB

Morales’s Dual Role as Interpreter and Coach Unique in MLB

After playing, coaching, and managing in the minor leagues, in 2023 Stephen Morales joined the Pittsburgh Pirates as an assistant coach and interpreter.
Morales’s Dual Role as Interpreter and Coach Unique in MLB
Pittsburgh Pirates assistant coach and interpreter Stephen Morales routinely throws batting practice for the club. Courtesy of the Pittsburgh Pirates
Donald Laible
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The Pittsburgh Pirates keep Stephen Morales busy.

As an assistant coach and club interpreter on Pirates manager Derek Shelton’s staff, on any given morning during spring training and throughout the 162-regular season, Morales appears to be quick on his feet. He has to be. Should, for instance, the media ask to speak with shortstop Oneil Cruz or any other Spanish-speaking players who don’t speak English fluently, Morales’s translating services are called for.

Donald Laible
Donald Laible
Author
Don has covered pro baseball for several decades, beginning in the minor leagues as a radio broadcaster in the NY Mets organization. His Ice Chips & Diamond Dust blog ran from 2012-2020 at uticaod.com. His baseball passion surrounds anything concerning the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and writing features on the players and staff of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Don currently resides in southwest Florida.