John Russell wants to be here next year and beyond

Rumors continue to swirl regarding Manager John Russell’s fate with the ball club. Russell is still under contract for the 2011 season, but President Frank Coonelly said recently that no one’s job was safe.

Currently sitting on 99 losses and on pace to lose 106, something needs to be changed. So will John Russell and his staff –who were brought in 2007– be around next season? A decision that will be made after the season ends, Russell says he wants to see the Bucs turnaround through.

“I’ve said it a million times — the day I start worrying about my job is the day I stop doing my job well,” Russell said. “I can’t worry about that. I’m under contract for next year and fully intend to be here. I don’t see any reason why I wouldn’t be here, in my mind.

“I’m sure there are a lot of people who would disagree with that, since everybody has their opinion. There’s some really good things going on, and I’d like to be a part of that and expect to be a part of that.”

Despite the win/loss record, things are getting better in the Pirates organization. Talented players are trickling in and will continue to do so as long as the plans on attacking the draft continue.

But is John Russell the manager that could lead these young guys to a .500 season and beyond?

“It’s not a matter of ‘if’ but a matter of ‘when,’ and it’s closer than a lot of people think,” Russell said. “Absolutely, I want to be here. I would like to be here, because I’ve watched it grow. Whether I’m here or anybody else is here, it’s going to happen.”