Pirates are dealing with yet another unforced PR blunder

The Pittsburgh Pirates are taking losses on and off the field so far in the 2025 season. Less than a week after the team faced backlash for replacing a Roberto Clemente sign in right field with an advertisement, another PR blunder has hit them hard.

This one actually directly impacts fans.

Following the 2024 season the Pirates removed commemorative bricks outside of the home plate entrance to PNC Park that fans had purchased when the stadium was being built. 

Fans put their names, the names of loved ones and messages on the bricks to be displayed for what they thought would be on a permanent basis. But when the bricks were removed as part of a construction project the team did not offer any details on when they would be returned, if they would be returned, or where they would be.

All they said at the time was this:

"We are currently exploring multiple options on how best to display the bricks and, more importantly, the personal messages and memories on them. Those fans who participated in the program should know we are working to ensure the essence of the program is captured moving forward."

Since then, there was no messaging or communication with fans as to where the bricks were or what was being done. 

After fans starting pushing, and the Pittsburgh media started digging into it, an answer was finally provided on Tuesday: The bricks were found dumped at various recycling facilities around the Pittsburgh area.