The Pittsburgh Pirates have found themselves in a quandary over the fate of the personalized "Bucco Bricks" that once adorned the entrance of PNC Park. In the latest incident to raise the ire of fans, it was reported by CBS News that bricks commemorating beloved memories and family members had been unceremoniously dumped at a Reserve Township recycling facility. Some supporters, like Mark Robinson, expressed their dismay. Robinson told KDKA-TV, "I'm like a tornado of anger swirling about here today when I heard what they are going to do with these bricks."
Sold starting in 1999 for between $75 and $150, these bricks offered fans a concrete link to the team and the stadium. Removed for renovations earlier this year, the bricks laid outside the park for almost 25 years were disposed of due to deterioration from weather and foot traffic. This marks the third time the bricks have been replaced. In a statement detailed by Triblive, the Pirates said they were planning "a more permanent display for the bricks that would be ready for next season."
Adding to fans' dissatisfaction is the recent removal of a decal honoring Roberto Clemente from the right-field wall, which was replaced by an advertisement. These developments come on the heels of a call from home opener attendees for owner Bob Nutting to sell the team and following boos directed at manager Derek Shelton.
The Pirates are attempting to address the mistake, with the Senior Vice President of Communications and Broadcasting, Brian Warecki, stating: "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." According to an article by MLB, these new plans are part of celebrating the 25th season of the ballpark.
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