Although PNC Park is one of the nicest venues in baseball, the consistent and ongoing losing of the Pirates makes it tougher to buy tickets to see a game.
Each year, the team talks about rebuilding, but each year the outcome is the same. As I look at this year's performance at the minor league level, I have to wonder why other low payroll teams can be competitive but the Pirates can't?
An entire generation has never experienced the thrill of a winning Pirates team. We have seen other local teams win at the college and professional level, but I have to think that the ongoing struggles of the Pirates might cause some local youngsters to turn their backs on baseball. The Nate McLouth trade has me wondering if this team will ever see a winning season while in PNC Park.
A few days before opening day, a Pirates squad consisting mostly of minor leaguers lost a game to Manatee Community College. Perhaps that is why the organization needs help at the minor league level.
Bob Trumpbour
Duncansville, Pa.
