Pittsburgh Pirates
PNC Park
Pennsylvania, United States
The Pittsburgh Pirates were established in 1882 as part of the American Association under the name Pittsburgh Alleghenys. The Pirates—or Bucs, from the Buccos moniker—adopted their current name in 1891 after a controversial player acquisition led critics to accuse the team of "piratical" tactics.
The Pirates joined the National League in 1887 and were part of the National League East from 1969 to 1993. At the start of the 20th century, they were among the best teams in baseball. The team has secured five World Series titles, including a memorable victory in 1960 when Bill Mazeroski hit the only walk-off home run in a Game 7 in World Series history.
In 1971, they won another World Series title behind Roberto Clemente, the first Latin-American player enshrined in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Another championship came in 1979 under the leadership of Willie Stargell. The Pirates have also been home to some of MLB's greatest players, including Honus Wagner, widely regarded as one of the best players in baseball history, and Andrew McCutchen, a five-time All-Star and 2013 National League MVP.
The Pirates made history in 1955 as the first MLB team to hire an African-American executive, Wendell Smith, as a full-time scout. Additionally, in 1921, the Pirates played a 26-inning game against the Boston Braves, which ended in a 1–1 tie—the longest MLB game by innings.
PNC Park has been the Pirates' home since it opened in 2001. The ballpark offers an intimate fan experience with modern amenities and stunning views of the Pittsburgh skyline, making it a favorite among baseball enthusiasts. The Pirates share a historic rivalry with the Cincinnati Reds, especially intense during the 1970s when both teams frequently competed for National League supremacy. Another notable rivalry is with the Philadelphia Phillies, known as the "Keystone State Battle", representing the in-state clash between Pennsylvania's two MLB teams.