2009 Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates finished the 2008 season a lamentable last place in the NL Central, but GM Neal Huntington is determined to end the losing streak in 2009. In the offseason the Pirates addressed their need for utility players by signing Ramon Vazquez and Eric Hinske, and in an effort to improve their pitching, they picked up pitching coach Joe Kerrigan. Much will depend on the LaRoche brothers, Adam and Andy, realizing their potential, and if top prospect Andrew McCutchen is ready for the big leagues, the Pirates are looking at a big improvement in the 2009 season. What the team will really need is tons of supportive fans, so get your tickets to PNC Park and help cheer the Pittsburgh Pirates on to a winning season in 2009!

From the Pittsburgh Alleghenys to the Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates are one of the earliest franchises in baseball having begun play as the Pittsburgh Alleghenys in 1882. By the turn of the century the Pirates had established themselves as the best team in the game. Led by one of the games’ earliest superstars, Honus Wagner, the team won the NL Pennant 3 straight years and played in the first World Series. Aside from his play, Wagner is best known for his baseball card which last sold for over $2 million, significantly more than Honus ever made.

Success and Stars

The Pirates lost that first World Series back in 1903 but they went on to win 5 of them, most recently in 1979. Following those early successes the Pirates went into a period of decline not emerging until 1960. In the 1970’s they dominated the National League East, winning the division 6 times over the decade. The team was led by hitting greats Willie Stargell and Roberto Clemente, both Hall of Famers. Clemente was known for his strong arm, great speed, power, fielding, and the ability to hit for a high average. Clemente was also a great humanitarian who tragically died in a plane crash trying to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua on December 31, 1972.

The Pirates won 3 straight East Division titles once again from 1990 to 1992. But, in 1993 star Barry Bonds departed via free agency and the team once again went into decline. In recent years the Pirates have fielded young and exciting teams, but against division rivals Mets, Cubs, and Astros, the going is tough.

Beautiful New Stadium

The Pirates currently play in beautiful PNC Park. Smaller and more intimate than their former home, Three Rivers Stadium, they moved in 2001. Three Rivers Stadium was a large multipurpose facility with artificial turf they shared with the NFL’s Steelers. PNC Park is a baseball only stadium with natural grass and wonderful sightlines. One of the newest stadiums in baseball, it hosted the 2006 All Star game. Thanks to their new stadium, loyal fan base, and young team Pirates tickets are more coveted than they’ve been in years.