• Loading stock data...
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Tuned In returns to NYC on September 16. Hear from the biggest names in sports media. Click here to get your spot

Pirates Facing Fan Backlash Over Dumping Bricks and Clemente

Commemorative bricks bought by fans were found in a recycling facility.

Apr 9, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Endy Rodriguez (5) and catcher Joey Bart (14) collide attempting to catch a pop-up hit by St. Louis Cardinals designated hitter Willson Contreras (not pictured) during the eighth inning at PNC Park.
Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The Pirates are facing their second backlash from fans this week after commemorative “Bucco Bricks” were found at a recycling facility.

The local news outlet KDKA first reported the news.

Fans purchased about 10,000 bricks that have lined the sidewalks outside the home gate entrance to PNC Park. The team introduced the “Bucco Bricks” in 1999 before opening the park in 2001, and says they have now removed them three times over the years. But instead of replacing the bricks again during recent renovations ahead of the ballpark’s 25th season, the team decided to seek a different solution.

“This cycle of deterioration prompted our organization to look for a better way to preserve these cherished messages over the long term,” a Pirates spokesperson said in a statement. “We have been actively planning to develop and unveil a more permanent display for these special messages to honor the enduring support that our fans shared then and continue to share in our future.”

Proceeds from the initial purchase of the bricks went to the Roberto Clemente Foundation. The team’s Hall of Fame right fielder was the subject of another controversy this week, when the Pirates replaced a ballpark tribute to Clemente with an advertisement for an alcohol company.

Clemente’s name and No. 21 logo have been displayed on the 21-foot right field wall—another tribute to the Pirates legend—since 2022. Clemente’s son, Roberto Clemente Jr., said Sunday that the “change was made without any communication or consultation with our family.” Later that day, the team said it would be adding back the logo.

“When we added the advertisement to the pad, it was an oversight not to keep the No. 21 logo,” Pirates president Travis Williams said in a statement. “This is ultimately on me, not anyone else in the organization. It was an honest mistake.”

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

MLB’s Speedway Classic Breaks Record Despite Weather Woes

The special-event game is played, but Sunday’s fan turnout is far less.

Bristol Rain Pushes MLB’s Ambitious Speedway Game to Sunday

MLB will look to replay the postponed game on Sunday afternoon.

Cubs Land 2027 MLB All-Star Game After Lengthy Pursuit

MLB will bring the Midsummer Classic to one of baseball’s cherished ballparks.
Carlos Correa
exclusive

Twins Moving Toward Selling Team After Deadline Teardown

Minnesota moved about 40% of its roster ahead of the trade deadline.

Featured Today

Inked Under Anesthesia: Athletes Getting $50,000 Tattoos

High-end studios, elite artist teams, and hours under anesthesia.
Coco Gauff at New York Liberty
August 2, 2025

How the New York Liberty Became the Hottest Ticket in Town

Once banished to the burbs, the Libs are now Brooklyn’s marquee attraction.
Las Vegas sign
July 29, 2025

College Sports Embracing Vegas After Years of Cold Shoulder

The Big Ten became the latest newcomer to Sin City.
2000, Jupiter, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Montreal Expos pitcher Hideki Irabu in action on the mound against the New York Mets at Roger Dean Stadium during Spring Training
July 28, 2025

Dead Sports Franchises Are Alive and Well on Twitter

The Expos, Sonics, and Whalers have active social media accounts.

Browns Push Forward on $2.4B Stadium Despite Political Obstacles

The NFL team plans a stadium groundbreaking, despite funding and legal issues.
Jul 27, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Injured Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) looks on from the bench during the first half of a basketball game against the Chicago Sky at United Center.
July 28, 2025

Chicago Sky Sell Out United Center With Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese Out

The Sky announced 19,601 fans attended the game at the United Center.
Jan 26, 2025; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) passes the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field.
July 29, 2025

$3.8B Commanders Stadium On Track for D.C. Approval

D.C. continues two days of public hearings on a proposed Commanders stadium.
Sponsored

Game On: Portfolio Players Stories, Brought to You by E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley

Dealmaker Jeffrey Kaplan maps the evolution of sports as an asset class
July 25, 2025

Prospective Rays Owner Must Start Fresh As $1.3B Stadium Deal Ends

St. Petersburg, Fla., officials formally terminate a prior ballpark agreement.
July 25, 2025

Eagles Turn to Their Fans As They Consider Future Stadium Plans

The defending Super Bowl champions are surveying season-ticket holders.
Jul 2, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox fans cheer after a home run by Boston Red Sox designated hitter Wilyer Abreu (52) during the sixth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Fenway Park.
July 25, 2025

Fenway Concession Workers Go on Strike for Dodgers Series

They’re asking fans not to buy food and drink at the games.
July 24, 2025

Commanders Restructure $3.8B Stadium Pact Ahead of Council Vote

A D.C. Council vote on the proposed stadium is now set for Aug. 1.