Courtesy: MLB
PITTSBURGH (PTTP) — From the golden era of Bill Mazeroski’s World Series heroics to the
explosive talent of Barry Bonds, the Pittsburgh Pirates have been defined by some of baseball’s
most iconic players.
Mazeroski, a defensive standout at second base, became a legend with his walk-off home run in
Game 7 of the 1960 World Series, lifting the Pirates over the heavily favored New York
Yankees. His glove work earned him eight Gold Gloves, but it was that single swing at Forbes
Field that cemented his legacy.
Roberto Clemente, one of the game’s most revered figures, brought more than just offensive
firepower and a cannon-like arm to right field. A 15-time All-Star and 12-time Gold Glove
winner, Clemente won the 1966 National League MVP and led the Pirates to two World Series
titles, in 1960 and 1971. His tragic death in a plane crash while delivering aid to Nicaragua in
1972 only deepened his legendary status.
Willie Stargell, the heart and soul of the “We Are Family” Pirates of 1979, powered Pittsburgh to
another championship with his towering home runs and inspirational leadership. The Hall of
Famer, affectionately known as “Pops,” was named MVP of the regular season, NLCS and
World Series that year, becoming the first player to achieve that trifecta.
Bonds, one of baseball’s most polarizing figures, made his mark in Pittsburgh before his recordbreaking home run exploits with the San Francisco Giants. A two-time NL MVP with the
Pirates, Bonds helped lead the team to three straight NL East titles from 1990-92, though
postseason success eluded them. His departure after the 1992 season marked the end of an era for
the franchise.
Together, Mazeroski, Clemente, Stargell and Bonds represent the highs of Pittsburgh baseball,
from World Series triumphs to individual greatness. Their legacies continue to shape the identity
of the Pirates and the game itself.