A History of the Pittsburgh Pirates Playing in Extreme Weather

The current cold snap and heavy snowfall in Pittsburgh have brought back memories of the Pittsburgh Pirates playing in similarly harsh weather conditions. While today’s conditions are more extreme than what was seen in past games, it’s a reminder that baseball has often had to deal with adverse weather. The start of the baseball season is typically a symbol of spring, but sometimes games are played in challenging conditions for various reasons, such as television schedules or team logistics. Let’s take a look at four notable games where the Pirates faced cold and snowy conditions.

April 7, 1977: A Snowy Opening Day

On April 7, 1977, the Pittsburgh Pirates faced the St. Louis Cardinals at Three Rivers Stadium. The game took place in temperatures in the 20s, with snowfall making the conditions even more difficult. This was the debut of new manager Chuck Tanner, who had come from nearby New Castle. The Pirates were looking to rebuild after a decline in their dominance during the early 1970s.

The game started poorly for the Pirates, with the Cardinals scoring four runs in the top of the first inning due to three errors by the Pirates. One error involved Jerry Reuss, who struggled to grip the ball due to the cold. Despite a late rally, the Pirates fell short, losing 12-6. The game was not only a tough loss but also a memorable experience for fans, including those who braved the cold to watch the game.

October 10, 1979: World Series Game 1 in the Snow

The 1979 World Series between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Baltimore Orioles was postponed due to snow and cold weather. When the game finally took place on October 10, the conditions were still challenging. The temperature was 38 degrees, and snow was falling before the game began. The field looked like a lake, and the umpires claimed it was “firm” despite the muddy appearance.

There was also controversy over the players wearing stocking caps, which led to an argument between Pirates manager Chuck Tanner and Orioles manager Earl Weaver. The issue was resolved by banning the caps for the next game. The Orioles scored five runs in the bottom of the first inning, and the Pirates struggled to keep up. The game ended with the Orioles winning 5-4.

April 4, 2018: A Cold Day at PNC Park

On April 4, 2018, the Pirates faced the Minnesota Twins at PNC Park. The temperature was 37 degrees, and the wind made it feel much colder. Fans could see light snow swirling in the ballpark lights. Miguel Sanó, a star player for the Twins, was expected to sign with the Pirates, but he did not. Both Sanó and Pirates center fielder Starling Marte wore ski masks during the game.

The Pirates led 3-2 after five innings but struggled in the sixth. Starter Iván Nova had difficulty controlling the ball, and the Pirates gave up two runs. Reliever Dovydas Neverauskas also gave up two more runs. The game ended with the Twins winning 7-3.

April 5, 2024: Hailstorms and a Unique Game

On April 5, 2024, the Pirates faced the Baltimore Orioles at PNC Park. The game was affected by fierce hailstorms, which were unusual for the team. Pirates manager Derek Shelton mentioned that he had never played in two hailstorms at once. Although the game was unremarkable, it gained attention for the videos that went viral online.

Shelton noted that the hailstorms impacted the team’s performance, particularly when they were batting. The game ended with the Orioles winning 5-2, and the Pirates had to adapt to the unusual conditions.

These games highlight the challenges that the Pittsburgh Pirates have faced in extreme weather conditions throughout their history. From snow-covered fields to hailstorms, the team has had to adjust and persevere, showing the resilience that defines baseball.