Pittsburgh Pirates

A Major League Baseball team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA.

Founded: 1882, as a charter member of the American Association. Transferred to the National League in 1887.

Formerly known as: the Alleghenies in the 1880s, and then the Innocents. In 1891, after being accused of stealing second baseman Lou Bierbaur from his previous club in 1891, they were first called the Pirates. The name stuck.

Home ballpark:

Uniform colors:

Logo design:

League pennants won: 1901, 1902, 1903, 1909, 1925, 1927, 1960, 1971, 1979

World Series championships won: 1909, 1925, 1960, 1971, 1979

Franchise history

In its early days, the club benefitted three times from mergers with defunct clubs. The AA club picked up a number of players from a defunct Columbus team in 1885. In 1890, they merged with the Pittsburgh team from the Players League after that league folded. In 1900, the Pirates picked up star players from the defunct Louisville club, including greats like Honus Wagner and Fred Clarke, triggering a long string of pennants.

Players of note

Baseball Hall of Famers: Fred Clarke, Roberto Clemente, Bill Mazeroski, Willie Stargell, Honus Wagner, Lloyd Waner, Paul Waner

Current stars: Brian Giles, Jason Kendall

Not to be forgotten: Babe Adams, Barry Bonds, George Gibson, Vern Law (Cy Young Award, 1960), Sam Leever, Dave Parker, Deacon Phillippe

Retired numbers: #42 (Jackie Robinson)