The Pittsburgh Pirates are one of a handful of present-day National League teams with deep roots within Major League Baseball. The franchise joined the NL in 1887 as the Pittsburgh Alleghenys but has been known as the Pirates since 1912. The Pirates are one of just a few clubs with such a long history in a single city; although the team has moved stadiums several times, it has always called Pittsburgh home.
Ballpark / Stadium – PNC Park
The Pirates moved into PNC Park in 2001 and the park has often made news as one of the best facilities in baseball. Previously, the team had spent three decades at Three Rivers Stadium and more than a half century at Forbes Field. Located adjacent to the Allegheny River, the park’s notable features include a sensational view of downtown Pittsburgh, an intimate feel and concession stands that sell a variety of Pittsburgh favorites, including Primanti Brothers sandwiches. Read more about PNC Park.
World Series Championships
Although it’s been several decades since the Pirates could consider themselves the best team in baseball, the team has five World Series titles to its name. The Bucs, as they’re often known, clinched the World Series in 1909, 1925, 1960, 1971 and 1979. Other successes in the club’s past include nine National League Pennants and nine division titles. The Pirates dominated baseball headlines in 2013, making the postseason after ending a streak of 20 straight losing seasons.
Pittsburgh Pirates Roster
Members of the Pirates all-time roster who are enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame include Jack Beckley, Max Carey, Fred Clarke, Roberto Clemente, Barney Dreyfuss, Bill Mazeroski, Willie Stargell, Pie Traynor, Arky Vaughan, Honus Wagner, Lloyd Waner and Paul Waner. Other notable Pirates stars include Barry Bonds, Andrew McCutchen, Freddy Sanchez, Bobby Bonilla and Andy Van Slyke.
Spring Training
The Pirates Spring Training ballpark is McKechnie Field in Bradenton, FL. The park, which opened in 1923, seats 8,500 fans. It’s named after former Pirate great Bill McKechnie and has been used as the Spring Training facility for a number of MLB clubs over the years. The Pirates Minor League Baseball affiliates are the Triple-A Indianapolis Indians, Double-A Altoona Curve, Advanced-A Bradenton Marauders, Class-A West Virginia Power, Short-Season A Jamestown Jammers and rookie league Bristol Pirates, Gulf Coast League Pirates and Dominican Summer League Pirates.
Pittsburgh Pirates FAQ
When were the Pittsburgh Pirates founded?
The Pittsburgh Pirates have been a member of the National League since 1887.
How many World Series titles have the Pittsburgh Pirates won?
The Pittsburgh Pirates have won five World Series titles (1909, 1925, 1960, 1971 and 1979).
Which Pittsburgh Pirates are in the Hall of Fame?
Several Pittsburgh Pirates are in the Hall of Fame, including Roberto Clemente, Honus Wagner, Willie Stargell and Bill Mazeroski.
Where did the Pirates play before PNC Park?
Prior to moving into PNC Park, the Pirates played at Three Rivers Stadium.
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