Sports

Pirates: Outdoors Screen for Wildcard Game not 'Feasible'

However the team is exploring the option of hosting a Pirates Postseason Block Party for fans to watch road playoff games.

The Pittsburgh Pirates announced Monday they would not be able to provide an additional outdoors venue, as the Penguins have done, for Tuesday's Wildcard Playoff game against the Cincinnati Reds.

"We have had significant internal and external discussions regarding the feasibility of setting up an area for fans to view the Wild Card game on a big screen outside of PNC Park," said Brian Warecki, Senior Director of Communications. "Unfortunately, there is simply no space around the ballpark when the team is playing at home that could accommodate the TVs and the many fans who would want to watch the game outside of PNC Park."

Ross Township financial specialist David E. Martin first proposed the idea in early September. He even went so far as to create a Facebook page where fans could add their suggested venues. The site has had thousands of hits, with fans leaving dozens of suggestions, he said.

Warecki said it all comes down to parking and traffic.

"More than 40,000 fans will pack PNC Park on Tuesday night, which is more than double the capacity at CONSOL Energy Center," he said. "As our fans know from the large crowds at PNC Park this season, parking in and around the North Shore is very limited.  Adding a large outdoor viewing party event would further stress the traffic, parking availability and overall experience of fans coming to and leaving the ballpark."

Martin suggests the Pirates are being short-sighted.

"I will be cheering just like the rest of the city Tuesday night," Martin said. "I wish the team only the best, but I think the Pirates' front office is missing a superb opportunity to connect with their fans in a unique and fun way." 

Warecki said if the Pirates advance in the playoffs, plans ARE in the works for when the team is on the road.

"We have, however, explored hosting a Pirates Postseason Block Party within the footprint of PNC Park for fans to gather and watch Postseason road games," he said. "We are hopeful that is an announcement we can make in the coming days."

Martin, of course, supports that idea but also said he wishes the Pirates would reconsider their decision for Tuesday.

"Fans 'get it' that traffic and parking will be tough," he said. "If those issues don't stop them from enjoying fireworks or a huge rubber duck, why would it stop them from enjoying the first Pirates postseason game in 20 years?"

 


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