PirateFest Kicks Off 2011 Season With Optimistic Celebration

Once again, Pittsburgh sports’ fans have outdone themselves.  With the Steelers’ chance at a record seven Super Bowl championships a week away and a Penguins late season playoff run is sure to be expected, the last thing on the minds of Steel City sports’ fans should be baseball.  Yet, on the last weekend of January, fans showed up in record numbers for the annual PirateFest celebration at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

The three-day baseball carnival drew 16,389 fans this year, which was a significant increase of approximately 1,400 from last year’s attendance and marked the largest crowd since PirateFest moved to the convention center in 2003.  This is just as encouraging and exciting as it is surprising, especially considering the fact that the Pirates completed their 18^th straight losing season in 2010 with a horrendous 105 loss campaign.  That being said, with more dramatic finishes and high-level individual efforts throughout the season, there is reason for fans to be interested in what these new young Bucco players have to offer.

Despite the impressive turnout to PirateFest this past weekend and the continued interest on the young star power headlined by the likes of Andrew McCutcheon, Pedro Alvarez, Jose Tabata, and Neil Walker, only one aspect of a Pirates’ season is going to win over this difficult-to-please, sports-obsessed city:  winning baseball games.  Newly acquired manager Clint Hurdle has an impressive reputation and an overwhelmingly inspiring optimistic attitude, which, in theory, is exactly what a group of young position players need in order to take their games and attitudes to the next level. 

While winning is at the forefront of importance to the team and its fans, we all must not be naïve in our hopes for success.  After all, the Pirates haven’t accumulated more than 68 wins in a given season since 2004, and after losing 105 games a year ago, unrealistic expectations will only set up the team, and its fans, for disappointment.  To finish the upcoming season in the 70-75 win category would be a monumental improvement from 2010, and would continue to prove to the players, and Pittsburghers in general, that this team, when coached efficiently and when they put forth enough effort, has the potential to improve and to be a force in the National League in the upcoming years.

The 2011 campaign will get underway in just a couple weeks from today.  Pitchers and catchers report to their first official Spring Training workout on February 14, position players will arrive shortly afterward, and the first full-squad workout will be run by Hurdle on February 19.  That’s where it all begins for this team.  Get back to the basics, further develop the young talent of the club, and when the opening day of the season arrives in Chicago, rely on the talent, experience, and charisma of the top players to get the Buccos off to a great start in 2011.

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

2011 PirateFest A Success For Fans And Players

Fans From The Stands' co-editors Chad Carlson and Zane Heiple took in the 2011 PirateFest at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center on Sunday. Check out the video below for their reactions to the event, the players, the fans, and much more!

Be sure to check out Fans From The Stands every day for the latest Pirates' news and updates.

And...

As Always...

Let's Go Bucs!

Pirates Sign Joe Beimel, Increase Bullpen Talent And Experience

Only hours from the kickoff of the 2011 PirateFest celebration, the Buccos’ signed veteran left-hander Joe Beimel to a Minor League deal on Friday. 

While the deal doesn’t guarantee Beimel a spot on the Major League roster, all expectations speak to the likelihood that Joe will be in a Pirates’ uniform to open the 2011 campaign.

While some skeptical Pirates’ fans and critics may not like the familiarity of this type of a signing (the acquisition of an older veteran rather than finding a young up-and-coming talent), this move may actually make a lot of sense from a baseball standpoint.

Without a doubt, the Pirates’ bullpen still has some holes, but one of the most glaring and worrisome has been the absence of an experienced left-handed reliever…until now.  The 33-year old brings an impressive amount of Major League experience across his 10-year career, something that the Pirates’ previous bullpen additions couldn’t offer the club.  Daniel Moskos and Tony Watson, while both offer tremendous upside, don’t have a minute of top level experience between them. 

While Beimel may be slightly past his prime, he still brings experience, both on and off the field, which, if nothing else, can help aid Moskos and Watson, along with non-roster invitee Justin Thomas, in their development.  Still, by this signing, the Pirates are saying that they are more than confident in Beimel’s ability to step into critical relief roles immediately.

For those who may not know, Joe Beimel is utterly familiar with Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.  After growing up in St. Mary’s, PA, he pitched for Duquesne University right here in Pittsburgh.  The Pirates drafted him in the 18^th round of the 1998 First-Year Player Draft, and Beimel made his MLB debut with the club in 2001.

For information on the signing of Joe Beimel, be sure to log on to the Pirates’ official website.

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

Pirates' Pitching Rotation Spots Up For Grabs Heading Into Spring Training

When a team has lost for nearly 2 straight decades, there is certainly plenty of blame to go around.  Above all else, though, which has been proven year after year, that pitching is by far the most critical aspect to a team’s success.  Obviously, it is no surprise to any avid baseball fan that the Pirates, who finished another dismal season in 2010, suffered from inconsistency and unreliability from their starting, relief, and closing pitching throughout the entire year.

The Battlin’ Buccos are preparing to enter camp with four starters, including Kevin Correia, Paul Maholm, James McDonald, and Ross Ohlendorf.  With these being the favorites to fill the top four spots, leaving one final available slate in the starting rotation.  As of right now, that vacancy will look to be filled by one of three early front-runners:  Brad Lincoln, Charlie Morton, and Scott Olsen. 

Lincoln will by far be the most headline-worthy candidate, one way or another, as his success could range from established 5^th starter for the Pirates or he could find himself back in Triple-A Indianapolis’s rotation.  After all, Charlie Morton is out of options and about at the end of his rope in terms of chances that will continue to be given to him by Pirates’ management.  While the possibility for success still exists, his inconsistent pitching and inability to put together multiple strong performances at the major league level have all but diminished any confidence that he or the rest of the ballclub has in himself to be a successful pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates.  Scott Olsen, on the other hand, has had proven big league success in the past.  However, as we all know as Pirates’ fans, past success does NOT always lead to future success. 

Brad Lincoln was called up to the majors, along with Jose Tabata and Pedro Alvarez, last June.  As a unit, the trio was expected to make an immediate impact and represent a key part of the organization’s young core.  While Tabata and Alvarez delivered (for the most part), Lincoln struggled.  Overall, the right-hander finished his debut season with a 1-4 record and a 6.66 ERA, while walking 15 batters, striking out 25, in just over 52 innings of work.  He gave up nine homeruns, while opponents hit over .300 off of him.  While there’s something to say about major league experience, these aren’t exactly the most encouraging numbers as he heads into his second season as a potential Pirates’ starter.

Perhaps of greater importance of the team’s early success this season is the pitching situation.  Be sure to check back right here at FFTS throughout the rest of the winter and spring training for all the latest news and updates surrounding the pitching situation and everything else Pirates’ related leading up to the 2011 season.

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

Bucs' Expectations High For Neil Walker Heading Into 2011 Season

When a team has had a losing season for nearly two straight decades, one would expect personnel changes and lineup alterations to be a consistent aspect of that club’s history.  As the Pittsburgh Pirates enter the 2011 season here in a couple months, they certainly have their fair share of decisions to make to improve the team’s performance from years past.  While people are still buzzing about the star potential of Jose Tabata and slugger Pedro Alvarez, and while Bucco management is pondering over the pitching rotation, as well as find adequate spots in the lineup for players including Garrett Jones and Ryan Doumit, there remains one constant:  Neil Walker is the Pittsburgh Pirates’ second baseman.  At least, for now.

The Buccos’ infielder is coming over an incredible, and utterly unexpected, season.  Walker hit for a .296 average with 126 hits, 12 homeruns, 29 doubles, and 66 RBI through only 110 games.  Not bad for his first “full” season at the Major League level.  Without a doubt, this was Neil’s groundbreaking year, impressing his teammates and opponents alike with his solid defense, patient hitting, and his ability to drive the ball out of the ballpark.  His only previous MLB experience came in 2009, where he hit just .194 through 36 at bats, only appearing in 17 games.  Throughout the course of the 2010, Pirates’ fans had the privilege to watch the 25 year old grow up right before their eyes on the baseball field, on his way to an astounding rookie season for the Pirates as well as for the rest of the National League.

So with the upcoming season vastly approaching, what can we expect from Walker on his encore?  Well first of all, without a doubt, no matter how impressive of a season he has this year, he will not live up to expectations that fans and sports' critics will bestow upon him.  Don’t get me wrong, Walker had a phenomenal season and he’s a solid baseball player, both with the bat and with the glove.  But we, in Pittsburgh, have the tendency to get a little overzealous with our sports’ teams.  Just because Neil hit .296 with 12 homeruns and 66 RBI in 110 games last season, that doesn’t mean that he should be over .300 with at least 20 homeruns and close to 100 RBI if he plays a full season.  Pittsburgh fans are loyal to their sports’ teams, but they’re also VERY hard on them.  Let’s hope this isn’t the case for Real Deal  Neil at 2^nd base this season.

Ideally, with the bats of Tabata and Andrew McCutchen only improving from last year, along with the power potential of Alvarez and Jones as well as momentary contributions from others along the way, the pressure shouldn’t be on Walker to put up such amazing numbers.  Still, we, as Pirates’ fans, should feel comfort in the fact that despite all of the questions still on the board with this baseball team, we have a reliable, hard-working, solid baseball player and hometown kid fielding balls at 2^nd base. 

For more on Neil Walker, check back here at Fans From The Stands as well as the Official Pirates Website.

And...

As Always...

Let's Go Bucs!

Buccos' Closer Spot One Of Many Decisions To Be Made Leading Up To Opening Day 2011

As spring training quickly approaches, there are still many lineup issues and decisions to be made, which is to be expected from a team that lost over 100 games last season.  Among these is the choice of designated closer for 2011.  The race is undoubtedly between Joel Hanrahan and Evan Meek.  Following the trade of Octavio Dotel just minutes before the trade deadline last summer, the responsibility of closing out ballgames fell in the laps of these two hard-throwing right-handers.  Hanrahan picked up six saves last year to Meek’s four, accumulating nearly 1/5 of the Buccos’ victories.

While the fans and media are in the dark in terms of who Pirates’ management is favoring for the closer role, the two lead candidates don’t seem to know much more than anyone else. 

“They haven’t said anything,” said Meek. “In terms of management officials making their decision, they have haven't said anything, but it isn't something that should keep you up at night. Whether it is the eighth or ninth inning that I end up working, you still need to go out and get three outs. You know that as a person who does what I do." 

These sure are encouraging words from the Pirates’ All-Star representative from a year ago.  The key will be if the Pirates’ starting pitchers and offensive lineup put Meek and/or Hanrahan in a position to save the game.  After all, it’s difficult to compare potential closers when they weren’t really given that many opportunities to complete games.  Relief pitchers are generally individuals of habit, and it was difficult for Meek and Hanrahan to settle into any routine in the bullpen because of uncertainty. 

As one would expect of these two players, though, Meek and Hanrahan said there is not anything adversarial between them, even as they, in essence, compete for the same role. 

For more information, check out the player profiles on Joel Hanrahan and Evan Meek.

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

A Little Something For Us Bucco Fans Going Through Withdrawal...

Attention Pirates' fans...it is now 2011 and the new season is quickly approaching.  With Opening Day 2011 less than three months away, here's a look back at last year's club.  How can we not love our Battlin' Buccos?!  Be sure to stay tuned right here to Fans From The Stands for news and updates.

And...

As Always...

Let's Go Bucs!

Pirates's Catcher Situation Is One Of Many Up For Discussion As 2011 Season Approaches

The new year is less than a week old and pitchers and catchers are set to report to Bradenton, Florida in just over a month. As it turns out, the catcher position is actually one of the more discussion-friendly topics for this young team.

Chris Snyder and Ryan Doumit are collectively due $11 million in 2011, as both catchers are entering the final season of three-year contracts. Snyder will certainly get the initial nod for the starting position, but Doumit can still play a valuable role for the Buccos this season, as was confirmed by general manager Neal Huntington.

Undoubtedly, Snyder provides more defensive stability and consistency over Doumit, and while Ryan has the hot-bat capabilities from time to time, the injury-prone catcher simply hasn’t delivered for the Pirates for an entire season, which is most likely what led the Buccos to search for a catcher elsewhere, ultimately snagging Snyder from Arizona.

The only other catcher on the Pirates’ roster currently is Jason Jaramillo, who had a strong 2009 season, but after his dismal performance last year in limited opportunities with the club, he will more than likely spend a bit of time at Triple-A Indianapolis. The only chance Jaramillo will see extended play in Pittsburgh is in the event that Doumit is dealt away prior to Opening Day 2011. This seemed more likely a month ago, but now, only a slight likelihood. But as well all know, the Pirates are always good for a surprise or two throughout the year.

Check out article on the Pirates’ catcher situation at the Pirates Official Website.

And…

As Always…

Let’s Go Bucs!

Pirates Top 20 Prospects Of 2011

With the new year now upon us, the Pirates' 2011 season is fast approaching. While most of the headlines surrounding Pirates' baseball includes the likes of Andrew McCutchen, Pedro Alvarez, and Neil Walker, the minor league system is also abuzz about a number of up-and-comers in the Buccos' camp. Check out the link below for an exclusive look at the Pirates' Top 20 Prospects of 2011, courtesy of our friends over at MinorLeagueBaseball.com

http://www.minorleagueball.com/2011/1/3/1910902/pittsburgh-pirates-top-20-prospects-for-2011

And...

As Always...

Let's Go Bucs!

Bert Blyleven Welcomed To The Hall Of Fame

Bert Blyleven, who helped lead the Pirates to the 1979 World Series title, was elected to the Hall of Fame on Wednesday after garnering 79.7% of the vote, with 75% required for election. It was his 14th year on the ballot.

The right-hander notched 287 career wins, 27th on the all-time list, and is fifth in career strikeouts with 3,701. He is 11th in games started with 685 and his 60 shutouts are ninth all-time. Blyleven also ranks 13th all-time in innings pitched with 4,970.

From 1978-80, Blyleven went 34-27 with a 3.47 ERA over 101 starts, including a 2-0 record with a 1.42 ERA in three postseason starts in 1979 as the Pirates defeated the Orioles to win the World Series.

Click the link below for full coverage of the announcement at the Pirates Official Website:

http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110105&content_id=16393818&vkey=news_pit&c_id=pit

And…As Always…Let’s Go Bucs!

Don't Miss PirateFest 2011!

With the dawning of the year new brings new optimism for Pittsburgh baseball fans. What better way to get into the baseball spirit than taking a trip down to the David L Lawrence Convention Center for PirateFest!

The 2011 edition is set for January 28-30 and promises to continue the tradition of offering fun and excitement for Pirates’ fans of all ages. This year’s festival features a Meet & Greet opportunity with new Buccos’ manager Clint Hurdle, free autographs by current players and alumni, photo opportunities with Pirates’ players, and much more. Players including Andrew McCutchen, Neil Walker, Evan Meek and James McDonald, as well as Hurdle, pitching coach Ray Searage, and bench coach Jeff Banister are scheduled to participate in the festivities.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $4 for children (14 and younger). Friday is open to season ticket holders only, while Saturday and Sunday are open to the general public from 10:00AM-8:00PM and 12:00PM-5:00PM respectively.

Check out the Pirates’ official website for all the news and events surrounding PirateFest, and we hope to see you at the David L Lawrence Convention Center January 28-30!

http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/pit/fan_forum/piratefest.jsp?partnerId=ed-4348527-175509912

And…As Always…Let’s Go Bucs!