In the latest of a series of events aggravating the team’s fans, the Pittsburgh Pirates issued a statement Tuesday explaining the appearance of commemorative bricks once displayed outside PNC Park at a recycling center.
The “Bucco Bricks” program began in 1999. For $75-$150, fans could personalize a message on a brick and have it displayed at the ballpark. Many of the bricks memorialized family members. KDKA-TV first reported Tuesday that some of the bricks had been discovered at a recycling center for building materials.
In a statement, the Pirates said the bricks were removed due to deterioration caused by weather and foot traffic, among other factors, and had been replaced twice before. The team said it was planning a more permanent display for the bricks that would be ready for next season.
My late father got this for me in 2001 and never told me about it. Took me several weeks into that season before I found it. Once I did, I never missed a chance to tap it with my foot when I covered or attended a game. I was stunned to find out they were removed and recycled. https://t.co/GMiMzwx4UP pic.twitter.com/jbWX2uefgb
— Joe Rutter (@tribjoerutter) April 9, 2025
On Sunday, the Pirates were left to explain why a decal honoring Roberto Clemente on the right-field wall at PNC Park had been removed and replaced by an ad.
The team started the season 2-5 on a seven-game road trip. At the home opener Friday, fans chanted for owner Bob Nutting to sell the team and booed manager Derek Shelton during pregame introductions.
The Pirates haven’t made the playoffs since 2015.
