On the western end of Pennsylvania along the North Shore of Pittsburgh lies PNC Park, the home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, since 2001. This park is next to the Allegheny River and has a view of downtown Pittsburgh. What is unique about PNC Park is the liberal use of limestone in the building’s fascade, a riverside concourse, and the steel work around building. The park’s playing surface is Tuckahoe Bluegrass. Drainage system beneath field can handle 14 in of rain per hour. The seating capacity, 38, 496 seats, is the second smallest of any MLB park (the smallest being Fenway). PNC Park has a reputation as a pitcher’s park, with a deep left field and a 21 ft wall in right field (called Clemente wall).
The Pittsburgh Pirates have won 5 World Series (1909, 1925, 1960, 1971, 1979). Originally called Pittsburgh Alleghenys at founding in 1881, the team joined the MLB in 1887 and part of National League division. The Pirates at the start of the 20th century was considered among the best teams (with Hall of Famer, Honus Wagner). In 1970s, the Pirates had a resurgence behind Roberto Clemente. In 2023, the Pirates have been on the bottom of the standings. This team currently have the 6th longest World Series Championship drought.
The park pays tribute to Roberto Clemente, great Pirate player, by naming the adjacent (6th street bridge) after him. From my seat in 2006, I could enjoy my clear view of the field and enjoy local eateries, like Primanti Brothers. Seats are angled toward the field and aisles are lowered to give fans improved views of the field. At 51 ft, the batter is closer to the seats behind home plate than the pitcher. The majority of seats ( appr. 28000) are on the 1st level. Also, with the exception of bleachers, all seats at park offer a view of Pittsburgh’s skyline.
The present Pirates as of 23 September 2023 was mathematically eliminated from 2023 playoff contention. This did not stop the Pirates from coming behind from a 9 run deficit to beat the Cincinnati Reds, a team fighting for a playoff spot. This was the largest comeback in franchise history. I enjoyed that the Pirates showed a flare of no quit this late in the season. See link for highlights: https://youtu.be/TpBFLbSIz34?si=AHtmEQIhxYUgWV_P
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